In Germany, many millions of euros are spent on New Year’s Eve every year. If you don’t shoot all the rockets, you can return them – right? We explain exactly what the situation is with the return of New Year’s Eve rockets in Germany.
New Year’s Eve rockets: Retailers only accept returns as a gesture of goodwill
New Year’s Eve 2021: Fireworks and firecrackers sales ban in Germany
Fireworks and New Year’s Eve firecrackers for private use may not be sold in 2021 either. This is to avoid an additional burden on hospitals overcrowded by the pandemic. Those who still have supplies at home or buy fireworks abroad can burn them off in their own gardens and also in some public areas, at least in some parts of Germany.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no return policy for local shops. There is only a right of return when buying over the internet.
- However, you can still ask your local shop if you can return fireworks. Many retailers do this as a gesture of goodwill. However, retailers are not legally obliged to do this.
- When buying fireworks on the internet, you should be careful and only order from trustworthy sellers.
- You do have a right of return when buying over the Internet, but it is not quite as simple as that. You are not allowed to simply send fireworks by post. New Year’s Eve fireworks are class II fireworks and must therefore be transported as dangerous goods – which can be expensive.
What to do with leftover New Year’s Eve rockets
If you didn’t fire your entire assortment on New Year’s Eve, unfortunately you may not use it at the next summer party.
- The legally permitted period for the use of fireworks is regulated in the German Explosives Act. From 6 p.m. on 31 December until 1 a.m. on 1 January, you may set off Class II fireworks (New Year’s Eve fireworks) – and only if you are at least 18 years old.
- If you want to set off leftover New Year’s Eve rockets outside this time, you will need a special permit. You can usually obtain this from the responsible public order office.
- As a rule, the only thing that helps is to wait until next year.
- Conclusion: It’s best to fire your New Year’s Eve rockets during the designated time – or just enjoy the fireworks of others and take photos of them.
