Gelderland-Zuid mayors deny fireworks exemptions

Mayors in the Gelderland-Zuid region of the Netherlands, including Wijchen, have decided not to grant exemptions for small-scale fireworks displays during the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations. This decision follows the implementation of the new ‘Wet veilige jaarwisseling’ (Safe New Year's Eve Act), which introduces a national fireworks ban for the first time.

While the new law allows mayors to grant exemptions to local associations and foundations under strict conditions, 14 mayors in the region declined to use this authority. This decision was made following advice from the police and the Safety Region. The mayors cited several reasons for the refusal, including the inability to provide necessary supervision on short notice and the insufficient time to process applications under the new procedures following the law's introduction on August 1.

Additionally, officials noted that emergency services are already heavily burdened during the New Year's period. Hubert Bruls, chairman of the District Safety Council, stated that the goal is to maintain a consistent policy to provide clarity for residents and simplify enforcement for authorities.