Private fireworks displays will once again be banned across Brussels during the festive period. Violators risk a fine and imprisonment for up to 14 days.
The end-of-year period – and especially New Year's Eve – has in Belgium as in many other countries been synonymous with fireworks. However for the past two years, a ban on the possession, transport and use of fireworks in public spaces has been put in place across the Brussels Region.
On Monday, Brussels Prime Minister Rudi Vervoort signed a decree to again impose the ban, this year from 15 December to 3 January. The ban applies to fireworks and pyrotechnics as well as sound cannons; it does not apply to professionals with the required licences.
The possession and transport of fireworks is prohibited from Saturday 23 to Monday 25 December and on 31 December and 1 January. During the other days, the ban on possession and transport only applies from 16:00 to 10:00 the next day, meaning that trading is still possible.
Importantly for Brussels, the official fireworks display in the city centre can take place. A spokesperson for Mayor Philippe Close confirmed to The Brussels Times that Brussels Major Events – the organisation behind the display last year – will reveal more information about the show on Thursday.
Used as weapons
The ban comes at the request of local chiefs of police to ensure their safety and that of emergency services. "The festive moments must take place in a climate of safety, both for citizens and for law enforcement and emergency services," Vervoort noted in a statement.
"The ban on the possession and transport of fireworks in public places is being introduced to prevent police from becoming victims of pyrotechnic abuse."
Last year, despite the ban being in place, troublemakers still managed to target police officers and paramedics with fireworks. Several parked cars in public areas had caught fire in the past due to fireworks being thrown at them.
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Despite urgent calls from both emergency services and Oscare vzw – the aftercare centre for people with burns – half of the municipalities in Flanders still allow fireworks on New Year's Eve, with or without the mayor's permission.
Despite the recognised dangers, fireworks are deeply rooted in Flemish tradition and are especially popular in West Flanders. In Wallonia too, no ban has been introduced.
