From what age can you set off fireworks?
It depends on the class — and that is exactly what people do not know. Class 1 pyrotechnic articles may be bought, kept and used from the age of 14, while class 2 and class 3 articles may be bought, kept and used only from 18. And even adults face bans: pyrotechnics may not be used where doing so endangers life, health or property or may harm the environment, nor under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or other intoxicants — “I had a drink and set off a rocket” is an offence in its own right, even if nothing happens. And check your municipality: it may restrict the time and place of fireworks in its territory, New Year's Eve included — several, Riga among them, already have.
📋 The rules
- Class 1: from 14
- Classes 2 and 3: from 18
- Banned where it endangers people or property
- Banned under the influence of alcohol
- Municipalities may restrict time and place
🔓 Exceptions
- A municipality may impose time limits on fireworks in its territory
- If a minor uses pyrotechnics, it is classed as minor hooliganism
- Stage pyrotechnics and professional services have separate requirements
⚠️ Penalties & fines
The fine can land on the parents. The administrative penalty for breaching the rules on handling pyrotechnics is €35–350 for an individual and €70–700 for a legal person. And here is the important part: if pyrotechnics are used by a minor who has not reached the required age, it is classed as minor hooliganism, and the parents or those standing in their place receive a warning or a fine of €70–210. So the parent pays for the child's rocket, even where the child bought it themselves. And before New Year, check your municipality's binding rules: several municipalities, Riga among them, have imposed time limits on the use of fireworks, and breaching those is penalised separately.
📎 Official sources
- likumi.lv · Law on the Handling of Pyrotechnic Articles →
- VUGD · Use of pyrotechnics →
- LV portāls · Safe use of fireworks →
❓ Frequently asked
What is the age limit for fireworks?
Class 1 articles may be bought, kept and used from the age of 14, while class 2 and class 3 articles may be bought, kept and used only from the age of 18. The shop is obliged to ask for ID.
What if a child sets off fireworks?
If a minor below the required age uses pyrotechnics, it is classed as minor hooliganism, and the parents or those standing in their place receive a warning or a fine of between 70 and 210 euros.
What is the penalty for breaking the rules?
For an individual the administrative fine is 35 to 350 euros, and for a legal person 70 to 700 euros. The penalty also applies to use under the influence of intoxicants or in a dangerous place.
Can I set off fireworks after drinking?
You may not. Pyrotechnics must not be used under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or other intoxicating substances, and that is an offence in itself, regardless of whether anyone is hurt.
Can a municipality ban fireworks?
A municipality has the right to restrict the place and time of pyrotechnics in its administrative territory. Several municipalities, including Riga, have done so, so the local rules must be checked.
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