The German Federal Ministry of the Interior is actively exploring legislative avenues to significantly tighten regulations surrounding private New Year’s Eve fireworks, according to a recent parliamentary response. This development, revealed in a reply from Parliamentary Secretary of State Christoph de Vries (CDU) to a query from the Green Party parliamentary group and reported by the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” network, underscores a growing political tension around the annual pyrotechnic displays.
While the Standing Conference of Interior Ministers (IMK) reportedly refrained from issuing a formal resolution enacting widespread firework bans on December 5th, 2025, the response confirms ongoing discussions among federal states regarding broadening local authorities’ power to regulate private fireworks. Crucially, the Ministry of the Interior has indicated an openness to these discussions, explicitly stating it is “currently examining” the feasibility of incorporating these demands via amendments to the Explosives Act or its associated First Ordinance regarding Explosives – a move that would involve substantial legislative changes. The Ministry affirmed continued engagement with state governments on this matter.
The Green Party’s interior policy spokesperson, Marcel Emmerich, has sharply criticized this approach, characterizing it as inadequate and a deferral of necessary action. He argues that the existing problems – escalating displays and the associated risks – are well-documented and readily solvable. Emmerich contends that municipalities urgently require legally secure frameworks permitting them to protect citizens, emergency services personnel, animals and the environment during the festive season. He voiced frustration that cities and towns are being left to navigate uncertain, case-by-case regulations and costly legal challenges.
“The unchecked proliferation of New Year’s Eve fireworks cannot continue” Emmerich stated. He further questioned the credibility of Interior Ministers who publicly condemn attacks on emergency responders while simultaneously obstructing meaningful restrictions. According to Emmerich, CSU politician Alexander Dobrindt bears a degree of responsibility for allowing a seemingly celebratory New Year’s Eve to routinely come at the expense of public safety, environmental preservation and the well-being of first responders. The escalating pressure suggests a deepening rift between proponents of stricter regulations and those advocating a more permissive approach to New Year’s Eve celebrations, with local authorities caught in the crossfire.
