Wels, Austria – December 23, 2025 10:54:00
New Year’s Eve in Wels: Fireworks Restrictions and Safety Appeals
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Officials are urging residents to celebrate New Year’s Eve responsibly, with a focus on safety and minimizing disruption to animals and the environment.
- A ban on New Year’s Eve crackers and rockets remains in effect on public grounds.
- Fireworks categorized as F1 can be purchased by those 12 and older, while F2 fireworks require buyers to be 16 or older.
- Using fireworks is generally prohibited in the local area, particularly near sensitive locations like hospitals and animal shelters.
- Improper use of fireworks can result in fines up to 3,600 euros or even a three-week prison sentence.
Once again, security officer deputy mayor Gerhard Kroiß and environmental councilor Thomas Rammerstorfer are appealing to the population of Wels to contribute to a safe and environmentally friendly New Year’s celebration. The existing ban on the sale of New Year’s Eve crackers and rockets on public grounds, and the security measures implemented for Halloween, have proven effective.
Safety First: What You Need to Know
Fireworks in Category F1, considered low risk with minimal noise, are available for purchase to individuals aged twelve and above. Category F2 fireworks require purchasers to be at least sixteen years old. However, their use is generally prohibited within the local area. The ban specifically applies to areas surrounding churches, hospitals, retirement homes, animal shelters, zoos, and recycling centers, as well as in close proximity to highly flammable materials and gas stations.
Authorities will confiscate improperly used or illegally possessed fireworks, and individuals may face administrative penalties of up to 3,600 euros or even imprisonment for up to three weeks. Police strongly advise against purchasing fireworks in other countries due to safety concerns.
Protecting Animals and the Environment
The ban on firing pyrotechnics near the Arche Catfish Animal Shelter and the Zoo is already in place, designed to protect the noise-sensitive animals housed there. Officials also recommend minimizing the environmental impact of New Year’s Eve celebrations by reducing noise, fine dust, and waste, and generally forgoing fireworks altogether.
“Celebrating on New Year’s Eve is of course allowed – but please do so with caution and responsibility,” stated Security Officer Deputy Mayor Gerhard Kroiß. “The improper use of fireworks, deliberate destruction or even the firing of firecrackers are completely unacceptable. Consideration for fellow human beings, animals and property should also be a matter of course on New Year’s Eve!”
City councilor Thomas Rammerstorfer (environmental and climate protection) added, “Despite all the exuberance: Please be considerate. What is a happy blast for some people often means dramatic stress for our animals in the home, in the zoo and of course in nature.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can I purchase fireworks in Wels? Fireworks categorized as F1 can be purchased by those 12 and older, while F2 fireworks require buyers to be 16 or older.
Where is the use of fireworks prohibited? Fireworks are generally prohibited in the local area, especially near churches, hospitals, animal shelters, and flammable materials.
What are the penalties for illegal fireworks use? Improper use can lead to fines up to 3,600 euros or a three-week prison sentence.
