Last New Year’s Eve with Fireworks? New Law to Limit Sales

As the year-end approaches, shops across the Czech Republic are stocking up on fireworks.

Yet, many sellers report that public interest in pyrotechnics has declined in recent years. A proposed amendment to the law could bring even stricter regulations to the sale of fireworks.

Approved by the government, the amendment is now pending review in the Chamber of Deputies.

Despite current regulations, illegal sales remain a problem. Authorities have discovered unauthorized explosives, particularly in markets.

For instance, in Prague’s SAPA market, inspectors uncovered 1,080 kilograms of explosive substances, far exceeding the legal limit of 80 kilograms. “The inspection revealed serious violations,” said František Kotrba, spokesperson for the Czech Trade Inspection Authority.

Stricter Rules for High-Risk Fireworks

The proposed amendment seeks to ban the sale of category F3 fireworks without a license. This means that New Year’s Eve 2024 could be the last opportunity for individuals to purchase F3 products freely. In the future, market stalls and street vendors will be restricted to selling only sparklers or the lowest-risk category, F1.

“The amendment aims to restrict pyrotechnics sales to brick-and-mortar stores, except for category F1 items. High-risk fireworks in categories F3 and F4 will require a license,” explained Lukáš Trsek from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The proposed law would not only ban the sale of category F3 fireworks without a license but also impose higher fines for violations. However, its approval remains uncertain, especially with upcoming elections.

Retail Chains Taking Action

Major retail chains in Czechia typically sell fireworks ahead of New Year’s Eve, often offering promotional deals. However, some have begun stepping back. In 2022, the Billa chain became the first to stop selling firecrackers. This year, Tesco followed suit, citing safety concerns.

High-risk fireworks, especially from categories F3 and F4, have been linked to serious injuries due to improper handling. “In some cases, pyrotechnics have exploded unexpectedly, which is why such items should never be held by hand,” warned Pavel Studený of the Czech Police Pyrotechnic Service.

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