National Fireworks Ban Nears Reality — Groningen Supports This Change
With growing concerns in Groningen and across the country, national support is building for a full fireworks ban — bringing the Netherlands closer than ever to ending consumer fireworks sales.
A full ban on consumer fireworks in the Netherlands is closer than ever — and Groningen is one of the cities leading the call for action. For years, mayors, emergency services, and residents have called attention to the damage, injuries, and chaos caused by fireworks. Now that the VVD, a major party in the national coalition, has changed its position, a national ban looks likely.
With VVD’s support, 74 out of 150 members of the Tweede Kamer (Dutch Parliament) now back the proposal. If just a few more votes come from parties like Denk or NSC, the bill will pass — and the Senate already has a majority in favor.
Groningen's Mayor: "This Can't Go On"
Groningen has long supported efforts to reduce the dangers of fireworks. The city has faced annual challenges with fires, injuries, and aggression toward police and emergency workers during New Year’s. The mayor and local officials see the national ban not as a symbolic move, but as a practical necessity for safety and public order.
Interim mayor of Groningen, Mirjam van ’t Veld, has been vocal about the urgent need for a nationwide fireworks ban. She was one of 17 mayors who signed a letter to The Hague earlier this year asking for national legislation. “Last New Year’s Eve in Groningen was another shock,” she said. “There were riots, permanent injuries, and emergency workers were hindered. This really can’t continue.”
Local fireworks bans, such as the one already in place in Groningen, are hard to enforce without national backing. Illegal fireworks still enter cities, and consumer fireworks are still widely sold across the country. “Only a national approach will make local enforcement truly effective,” van ’t Veld argued.
Conditions From VVD
The VVD’s support comes with several conditions:
Enforcement: There must be a solid plan to tackle illegal fireworks and ensure local rules are followed.
Exceptions: Cities like Groningen can allow organized fireworks displays or neighborhood shows with permits.
Compensation: Fireworks sellers must receive fair compensation, since some businesses rely heavily on these seasonal sales.
VVD MP Ingrid Michon-Derkzen stressed the importance of a clear enforcement strategy and financial fairness: “Entrepreneurs shouldn’t be the victims of this policy.”
Industry Pushback: "It Will Cost Us Millions"
The fireworks industry is demanding €895 million in compensation if a national ban is enforced. Many fireworks shops and importers say they depend on the annual New Year’s sales — and some may face bankruptcy without it.
The Dutch government, however, estimates the actual compensation could be much lower — around €100 to €150 million if implemented soon, and as little as €50 million if the ban starts in 2026. EU rules may make later compensation more difficult.