In Flanders and depending on your age you should be allowed to buy all kinds of party fireworks without any problems. Purchasing fireworks isn’t an issue but often you are not allowed to use them. In most cities and municipalities a blanket ban on the use of fireworks exists throughout the year. Sometimes an exception is granted during the end-of-year period, but this is happening less and less often.
In Belgium products must meet all the legal conditions. For instance, everything you buy must bear the CE mark. This is a label showing that the product meets European requirements on safety, health and environmental protection.
Another condition is the weight of the explosives: you can buy and possess fireworks as long as the total weight of the explosives contained in them does not exceed 1 kilogram. And there are also restrictions on the age of the buyer. These restrictions are determined by the type of fireworks you buy.
Prohibited products for sale online
"Always pay close attention to what you buy," warns Lien Meurisse, the economy ministry spokesperson. "Especially if you buy fireworks online. Some items offered over the internet are not authorised for sale to consumers in Belgium."
A targeted sample by the economy ministry conducted in 2022 found that 10% of the items tested revealed serious risks when used. The fireworks often made more noise than allowed by European standards, exploded too close to the ground or did not work properly. As a result, users might tend to move closer too quickly to see what is going on.
Where to buy safe fireworks?
"Buy fireworks only from authorised and specialised shops that hold a licence, issued by the local authority. A reliable seller will recommend safe products and explain how they work," says Meurisse. No fireworks may be sold at fairs, markets or flea markets.
It is permitted to buy fireworks online, although there is a catch. "Internet sales are indeed not prohibited but sending them through the post or via a parcel service is," Lien Meurisse explains. So in that case, you will have to come and collect your order yourself or have them delivered in another way.
Buying is allowed, using usually is not
In the Brussels region, setting off fireworks is prohibited throughout the territory, even on private property. In Flanders, there is no general ban on fireworks, but in practice their use is banned in many municipalities. Only with special permission or during New Year's Eve, an exception is permitted here and there.
In other words, you can buy and possess fireworks, but are hardly ever allowed to use them.