New Year's Eve in Bremen: Strict bans on firecrackers cause chaos!

New Year's Eve in Bremen: Strict bans on firecrackers cause chaos!

New Year's Eve is just around the corner and the anticipation of New Year's fireworks can be felt in the air. But in Lower Saxony and Bremen, celebrants have to adapt to adapted regulations. While there is no nationwide ban on fireworks, various cities have set specific ban zones.

In Bremen, for example, special rules apply that were introduced primarily due to past dangerous incidents. Firecrackers and rockets are strictly prohibited at the battle. Anyone who does not comply with this police regulation can face fines of up to 5,000 euros. Setting off fireworks is also prohibited around Bremen Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in the picturesque Schnoorviertel, as well as at Bremen Central Station. Security authorities in Bremen adapt their operational concepts annually to the current circumstances, as butenunbinnen.de reports.

Regulations in Lower Saxony

In Lower Saxony people are less strict, but there are restrictions here too. Prime Minister Olaf Lies (SPD) has firmly rejected a nationwide ban, but supports local regulations. Some cities are setting additional prohibition zones, which are primarily intended to ensure the safety of citizens. In Braunschweig, for example, firing firecrackers in the Bohlweg colonnades and carrying glass bottles are prohibited. Göttingen has even issued a general ban on fireworks throughout the city center, and in Lüneburg there is a ban on fireworks in the historic old town and in the Kalkberg nature reserve. Failure to do so can result in fines of up to 10,000 euros, according to ndr.de.

But Hanover hasn't left out either - there is a year-round ban on fireworks in the city center. For some cities, it is also important to consider animal welfare. In Bremerhaven, for example, there is a special zone to protect animals near the seaside zoo.

Nationwide rules and local specifics

Nationwide, setting off fireworks near churches, hospitals and retirement homes as well as thatched and half-timbered houses is generally prohibited. In Oldenburg, on the other hand, they remain true to the federal laws and have not issued any additional regulations.

Even though setting off fireworks on New Year's Eve has a permanent place in traditional celebrations, security precautions are becoming increasingly strict in many places. A petition calling for a general ban on fireworks shows that a growing movement of citizens is calling for more safety and less noise.

The turn of the year is celebrated with colorful lights, but also with care. If you follow the rules and use the fireworks carefully, you can start the New Year safely - and perhaps the fireworks will be particularly memorable in 2025.