Can I set off fireworks in Finland?
On New Year's night, yes — any other time only with a notification. Consumer fireworks may be used without notice only from 18:00 on 31 December to 02:00 on 1 January. At other times you must notify the local rescue department in advance. Buyers and shooters must be 18, and the person firing must wear safety glasses — mandatory, not a tip. Municipalities also set no-firing zones (centres, squares).
📋 The rules
- Without separate notification, fireworks are allowed only on New Year's night, 31 Dec 18:00 – 1 Jan 02:00.
- At any other time, consumer fireworks require an advance notification to the rescue department, which can set conditions or refuse.
- The age limit is 18 — for buying and firing; supplying minors is punishable.
- The shooter must wear safety glasses — per Tukes this is mandatory, and most eye injuries happen without them.
- Many municipalities and rescue departments define banned zones (city centres, near churches and hospitals) — check local restrictions.
🔓 Exceptions
- Professional displays are separately licensed — the organiser handles permits.
- Sparklers and the smallest F1-class items may be sold to younger buyers according to package age limits.
⚠️ Penalties
Firing outside allowed hours or in banned zones can bring fines (explosives and public-order violations). You pay full damages — and careless firing towards people can be investigated as endangerment.
📎 Sources
- Tukes · How to light fireworks safely →
- Finnish Rescue Services · Fireworks →
- Police of Finland · Fireworks for adults only →
❓ Frequently asked questions
What hours are fireworks allowed at New Year?
From 18:00 on New Year's Eve until 02:00 on New Year's night — no notification needed then.
Can I fire rockets at Midsummer or a wedding?
Only if you notify the rescue department in advance and it's accepted — otherwise it's prohibited.
Are safety glasses really mandatory?
Yes, for the person firing — and Tukes recommends them for spectators too. Most eye injuries happen without them.
Can a 16-year-old buy sparklers?
The smallest F1 items can be sold younger per package age limits — rockets and cakes are always 18+.
🔎 What people search
Searches that lead to this question.
- “fireworks rules Finland”
- “New Year fireworks hours Finland”
- “fireworks notification rescue department”
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