Istanbul bans fireworks and torches through Oct 2026 to curb fire risk

The Istanbul Governor’s Office issued a decree prohibiting the sale and personal use of fireworks, signal flares, torches and similar combustible items across the city from 16 July to 28 October 2026. The measure targets the heightened danger of forest fires during the hot summer months.

Police and gendarmerie units will conduct intensified inspections in parks, picnic areas and venues hosting public events. Violations may result in administrative penalties or criminal proceedings. Safety experts cited past tragedies, such as a 200‑person death toll at an indoor wedding in Iraq, to stress the lethal potential of uncontrolled pyrotechnics. They also suggested mandatory buyer acknowledgments and strict invoicing to deter illegal sales.

The ban aims to protect both public safety and natural areas by preventing accidental ignitions that could spark large‑scale fires.