Many Dutch municipalities ban all fireworks

THE HAGUE – At least a quarter of municipalities in the Netherlands plan to ban all fireworks during the upcoming New Year's celebrations. Although the new law allows clubs and community organizations to apply for special permits, many municipalities have decided not to grant them.

Local authorities say there is not enough time to process applications and insufficient staff to enforce the rules during New Year's Eve. So far, very few permit requests have been submitted.

Several regions, including Zeeland, Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Amsterdam, Delft and a number of municipalities in Limburg, have already confirmed they will not issue exemptions.