Belgium Could Ban Fireworks Sales to the Public as Minister Says “Enough Is Enough”
Belgium could move closer to a nationwide ban on fireworks sales to private individuals after Flemish Animal Welfare Minister Ben Weyts renewed his call for tougher rules.
Weyts, a member of the N-VA party, wants the federal government to ban the sale of fireworks to the public, arguing that the risks to people and animals are greater than the short lived enjoyment of fireworks.
“Enough is enough when it comes to playing with human and animal lives,” he warned.
Why Does Ben Weyts Want a Nationwide Ban?
Weyts says local fireworks bans are not enough because the rules differ between Belgian cities and municipalities.
Flanders tried to introduce stricter fireworks rules in 2019, but the Constitutional Court overturned the measure because the region did not have the legal authority to introduce such a general ban.
Weyts now wants the federal government to take action and establish one clear set of rules across Belgium.
His proposal would make fireworks generally illegal for private individuals, while allowing local authorities to approve limited displays in specific places and at certain times, under professional supervision.
Seven in Ten Flemish Municipalities Already Have Restrictions
Local authorities have already taken action.
Weyts said that around seven in ten Flemish municipalities had a fireworks ban in place during the previous New Year’s celebrations.
However, rules still vary from one municipality to another. In some places, fireworks are completely banned, while others allow them under certain conditions.
A ban on setting off fireworks does not necessarily mean that buying or owning them is also prohibited.
Fireworks Put People and Animals at Risk
The minister says fireworks are not dangerous only for the people who set them off.
Bystanders, nearby residents and people walking in public areas can also be injured by explosions or accidents.
Animals are particularly affected by the loud noises and sudden flashes. Dogs, cats and horses can panic, run away or injure themselves.
Will Fireworks Be Banned in Belgium by New Year’s Eve 2026?
Not yet. As of October 31, 2026, no nationwide federal ban on selling all consumer fireworks to private individuals has been approved.
Ben Weyts is calling on federal political parties to move forward with new legislation.
For now, existing national restrictions and local municipal rules remain in place. Anyone planning to use fireworks during New Year’s celebrations should check the rules in their municipality before buying or using them.
The proposed nationwide ban could change how people celebrate New Year’s Eve in Belgium, but its timing and final conditions remain uncertain.
