Private fireworks displays - granting of a special permit

Only at the turn of the year (on 31.12 and 01.01) may fireworks of category F2 (old designation class II) be set off by private individuals over the age of 18.

If private individuals, i.e. persons without a permit in accordance with § 7 or § 27 of the Explosives Act or a certificate of competence in accordance with § 20 of the Explosives Act, wish to set off category F2 fireworks themselves at another time, this may be permitted by the competent authority as an exception for a justified reason. Such private individuals require a permit for this. Some authorities consider a golden wedding anniversary, a milestone birthday or any other anniversary to be a justified occasion. However, there is no legal entitlement to the granting of this special permit.

Note: Even with such an exemption permit, private individuals may not set off fireworks of category F3, F4, stage fireworks of category T2 or other pyrotechnic articles of category P2 (old classes III (medium-sized fireworks), IV (large fireworks) or T (pyrotechnic articles for technical purposes, stage fireworks).

• Identity card (as proof of age and place of residence)
• Other documents relating to the purpose of the fireworks display

The exemption permit may be subject to conditions (e.g. that the fire department or volunteer fire department must be present during the fireworks display or that proof of liability insurance must be provided). You can find out whether and which conditions are attached to the permit from your local authority/city administration

The fees vary depending on the city or municipality and are based on the respective fee schedule.

§ Section 24 (1) of the First Ordinance to the Explosives Act (1.SprengV)

The application for a special permit should be submitted at least 14 days before the planned fireworks display.