Dutch campaign collects more than 4,000 kilograms of fireworks ahead of national ban

A government campaign allowing people to turn in foreworks anonymously and without a fine has so far collected more than 4,000 kilograms, according to the Ministry of Justice and Security. Enschede recorded the largest haul to date: more than 686 kilograms on Monday.

Deventer collected 334 kilograms on Tuesday, while Rotterdam residents handed over 190 kilograms last Saturday. Assen took in 114.7 kilograms on Thursday and Emmen 61.5 kilograms on Wednesday. A collection point also operated Friday in Winschoten, in the Groningen municipality of Oldambt, but the totals from there are not yet available.

The campaign runs through October 9. Collection points remain open in Amsterdam, Zwolle, Lelystad, Leiden, Almere, Haarlem, Groningen, Leeuwarden, Heerenveen, and Hoorn.

Consumer fireworks will be banned nationwide during the upcoming New Year. Residents may still light only small decorative items such as sparklers. Professional fireworks displays are not allowed.

Associations may obtain an exemption under specific conditions and then set off fireworks themselves. They may hold no more than 200 kilograms, may not be under the influence, and must have a safety plan and two trained supervisors. They also must keep spectators at prescribed distances that vary by type of firework.

More than 150 municipalities have already said they will not issue exemptions. That group includes Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Groningen, Almere, Zwolle, Enschede, Zoetermeer, Maastricht, and Delft. Officials say the rules remain unclear, they have too little time to review applications properly, and many lack the staff to enforce them on New Year’s Eve. Just over 10 municipalities have said they are willing to grant exemptions.