Private fireworks - Granting of an exemption

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

If private individuals, i.e. persons without a permit pursuant to § 7 or § 27 of the Explosives Act or a certificate of competency pursuant to § 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 justified reasons. Such private individuals need a permit to do so. Some administrations consider a golden wedding, a milestone birthday or other anniversary to be a justified occasion. However, there is no legal entitlement to the granting of this exemption.

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

 

The respective local regulatory authority of the city or municipality in whose city or municipality the fireworks are to be set off is responsible for granting the exemption.

You can also complete the procedure electronically via the Point of Single Contact.

• Identity card (as proof of age and place of residence)
• further documents for the purpose of the fireworks

The exemption may be subject to conditions (e.g. that the fire brigade or volunteer fire brigade must be present during the burning of the fireworks or that liability insurance must be proven). You can find out whether and what conditions are associated with the permit from the municipality/city administration responsible for you

A separate platform has been developed for online applications. On the so-called service platform, you can submit your applications electronically and much more! You are welcome to get your own impression of the application in advance without registering beforehand. To do this, use the simulation. In order to be able to use the online application to its full extent, you must first register in the online application process.

Online application procedure of the Point of Single Contact Hesse

You must be at least 18 years of age and there must be a justified reason for setting off fireworks.

§ 24 para. 1 of the first ordinance on the Explosives Act (1st Explosives Ordinance)

You must submit the application in writing. Depending on the offer of the city or municipality, the form is available for download. If your city or municipality does not offer a form, you can submit the application informally. In this application, you should at least specify the occasion, date and time of the event, as well as the venue.

Only after you have obtained an exemption can you purchase category F2 (Class II) fireworks ("New Year's Eve fireworks") from a fireworks dealer or from an online shop on the Internet.
 

The application for the exemption should be made at least 14 days before the planned fireworks display.

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