For a safe and relaxed start to the new year
The turn of the year is approaching. For many people, fireworks are part of New Year's Eve. To ensure that the transition into the new year is safe and as relaxed as possible for everyone, the city of Jena provides information about the applicable legal regulations and appeals for mutual consideration and the responsible use of fireworks.
Regardless of the turn of the year, the following applies nationwide: the setting off of fireworks is prohibited in the immediate vicinity of churches, hospitals, children's and old people's homes and in the vicinity of particularly fire-sensitive buildings and facilities. These include, in particular, historical buildings and listed buildings. These regulations serve to protect people, property and cultural heritage.
Two categories of fireworks are particularly relevant for private individuals:
- Category F1 - Small fireworks: permitted all year round. These fireworks allow a comparatively quiet and safe use of fireworks.
- Category F2 - Fireworks for New Year's Eve: this includes rockets and firecrackers with a mark from the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing. They may only be set off on December 31 and January 1. It is not permitted outside this period.
Violations of the legal requirements can be punished as an administrative offense with a fine of up to 50,000 euros. In serious cases, it may also be a criminal offense.
Mayor Benjamin Koppe explains:
"The setting off of fireworks is clearly regulated by law. The nationwide debate on general fireworks bans makes it clear that compliance with these rules is becoming increasingly important. The main triggers for this discussion are, in particular, the setting off of fireworks outside the permitted period, the strain on emergency services on New Year's Eve and environmental and safety aspects. Questions of noise pollution and the impact on animals are also discussed."
One aspect that is frequently discussed is noise. Fireworks produce very loud, short noise peaks, which many people find annoying. Animals also often react to this with stress, flight behavior or disorientation.
Environmental effects also play a role. According to the Federal Environment Agency, around 2,050 tons of particulate matter are released by fireworks in Germany every year - around 75 percent of this on New Year's Eve. Particularly in densely built-up urban areas, fine dust levels can increase significantly in the short term.
Another aspect is the waste produced. On New Year's Eve, Jena also regularly produces large quantities of residue, including paper and plastic waste, wood and metal parts as well as incompletely burnt pyrotechnic materials. Disposal involves considerable organizational and financial effort.
There are also risks to public safety .
"In recent years, there have been repeated fires in Jena caused by fireworks, including in garbage bins, on balconies or on dry surfaces. These incidents were spread across the entire city," says Benjamin Koppe.
It was not possible to identify specific focal points within the city. Overall, the number of serious injuries caused by fireworks has decreased in recent years. Alcohol-related injuries accounted for a larger proportion of the incidents.
Responsible action for a safe New Year
The city of Jena appeals to all citizens and guests to act responsibly when handling fireworks. This includes adhering to the legal requirements, keeping a sufficient distance from people and buildings and behaving cautiously - especially when not under the influence of alcohol. Those who show consideration and protect themselves and others help to relieve the burden on emergency services and hospitals and make the turn of the year safe and relaxed for everyone.
The city of Jena would like to thank all fire, rescue and police services for their efforts at the turn of the year and wishes all residents and guests a safe and happy new year.