New Year's Eve Preparations and Firework Regulations in Major German Cities
With the holiday season approaching, cities across Germany are gearing up for New Year's Eve celebrations. While traditions such as fireworks remain popular, the corresponding regulations vary from city to city. In this article, we'll explore firework regulations in some of Germany's major cities.
Berlin
Politicians and authorities in Berlin are on high alert, preparing for potential incidents amidst rising tensions in places like Neukölln and Gesundbrunnen. Although Berlin cannot enforce a city-wide firework ban due to federal law, four restricted zones have been announced for Neukölln, Alexanderplatz, Schöneberg's Steinmetz neighborhood, and Moabit prison starting 6 pm on December 31 and ending at 6 am on January 1. Private fireworks are also banned at the Brandenburg Gate's New Year's Eve party.
Bremen
In response to TikTok posts expressing safety concerns, the Bremen Interior Ministry confirmed that a ban on fireworks will be enforced in the city center on Schlachte from the Teerhofbrücke to the Bürgermeister-Smidt-Brücke. This ban stems from the danger posed by fireworks and large gatherings in previous years.
Dortmund
Dortmund will not enforce an extended firework ban in its city center for New Year's Eve, with the exception of the New Year's Eve party on Friedensplatz. The ban is implemented to ensure safety at the event.
Dresden
No explicit firework restrictions are planned in Dresden, but setbacks up to 30 meters from churches, hospitals, children's homes, and old people's homes are prohibited, as per Section 23(1)(1) SprengV. Specific distances must be observed, depending on the type of pyrotechnics used.
Düsseldorf
Since the turn of the year 2016/17, a firework ban has been in effect in Düsseldorf's Old Town to avoid injuries caused by fireworks. This practice will continue for the upcoming New Year's Eve celebration.
Other Cities
In Cologne, a firework ban has been enacted in the city center on the left bank of the Rhine to mitigate excessive effects and ensure safety. A fine of up to 50,000 euros may be imposed for violation of this regulation.
In Hamburg, fireworks have been banned around the Binnenalster and Rathausmarkt due to potential safety issues.
As for Frankfurt, additional information on firework restrictions will be announced by Christmas. Stuttgart has issued a police order banning firecrackers and other pyrotechnics within the Cityring in Stuttgart city center.
While this is not an exhaustive list, these cities provide a good representation of New Year's Eve firework regulations across Germany. To confirm the latest restrictions in any given city, we advise checking local government websites or official announcements.
