Can I set off firecrackers and fireworks?
It depends on the category, your age and your municipality's orders. Firecrackers and fireworks are classified into categories (F1-F4): the smallest, least dangerous (category F1) can be bought and used from 14, category F2 from 18; higher categories (F3-F4) require licences and are for professionals. Many municipalities ban fireworks, especially around New Year, in certain areas (historic centres, near hospitals) or hours, with specific orders. It's always banned to throw firecrackers at people or animals or in crowded places. Buy only CE-certified products and follow the instructions.
📋 The rules
- Category F1: from 14; F2: from 18
- Categories F3-F4: for licensed professionals only
- Many municipalities ban fireworks (orders, New Year, zones/hours)
- Banned to throw them at people, animals or crowds
- Buy only CE-certified products
🔓 Exceptions
- Professional fireworks shows: with authorisations and qualified staff
- Municipal orders can fully ban fireworks in certain areas or periods
- Near hospitals, schools, crowded places: reinforced bans
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Using fireworks where banned by an order carries an administrative fine set by the municipality. Throwing firecrackers dangerously, at people or animals, or causing damage or injury can be a crime (injury, damage, dangerous throwing of objects) and entail compensation. Selling or giving firecrackers to minors below the allowed age is sanctioned. To avoid accidents, use only certified products, follow the instructions, keep safe distances and check your municipality's order before the holidays.
📎 Official sources
- Normattiva · Legislative Decree 123/2015 (pyrotechnic articles) →
- State Police · Safety and fireworks →
- Ministry of the Interior · Orders and public safety →
❓ Frequently asked
What age can I buy firecrackers?
It depends on the category. Category F1 pyrotechnics (the smallest) can be bought and used from 14, category F2 from 18. Higher categories (F3 and F4) are reserved for professionals with specific licences.
Can I set off fireworks at New Year?
Not always. Many municipalities ban fireworks, especially around New Year, with orders covering certain areas or hours. Before the holidays, check your municipality's order: in many cities setting off firecrackers in public is banned.
What's the risk of using fireworks where banned?
An administrative fine set by the municipality. If the firecrackers then cause damage or injury, or are thrown dangerously at people or animals, it can be a crime (injury, damage, dangerous throwing of objects), with a duty to compensate.
Can I throw firecrackers at people?
No, never. It's always banned to throw firecrackers at people, animals, buildings or into crowds. Besides the fine, you risk criminal consequences in case of injury or damage. Firecrackers must be used at a safe distance and per the instructions.
Which firecrackers can I buy legally?
Only CE-certified pyrotechnics sold by authorised retailers. Avoid illegal or homemade firecrackers, which are far more dangerous and banned. Store products safely and respect the minimum age for the category.
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