No Exemptions for Small-Scale Fireworks Displays
This New Year’s Eve, the nationwide fireworks ban will take effect for the first time. The new Safe New Year’s Eve Act grants mayors the authority to grant exemptions to local associations and foundations to organize small-scale fireworks displays, subject to strict Requirements .
Partly on the advice of the police and the Safety Region, the 14 mayors of municipalities in South Gelderland have decided not to make use of this option. The necessary supervision of small-scale fireworks displays cannot be arranged on such short notice. Furthermore, given the limited time between the law’s implementation and New Year’s Eve, it is not possible to process the exemption applications within the applicable application procedures. In addition, emergency services are already under heavy strain that evening and night.
As a result, the mayors do not believe it is possible to permit these types of shows in a safe and responsible manner.
Hubert Bruls (Nijmegen), Chair of the District Safety Council: "We want to take a unified approach now that the nationwide fireworks ban is in effect for the first time. This provides clarity for residents and makes it easier for our law enforcement officers."
Therefore, no exemptions will be granted in any of the municipalities in South Gelderland this New Year's Eve.