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Beware: Fireworks banned across most of Budapest on New Year’s Eve under stricter rules
Celebrating the New Year with fireworks will look very different in Budapest this year. Under a newly tightened municipal regulation, the use of most fireworks and pyrotechnic devices will be prohibited across the vast majority of the Hungarian capital on New Year’s Eve, with heavy fines awaiting those who ignore the rules.
The Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK) confirmed that, unlike in previous years, fireworks will be banned in most public areas of the city, following a decision by the Budapest Metropolitan Assembly to significantly restrict entertainment-related pyrotechnics.
New rules, shorter time window
According to the regulation, fireworks classified as Category II and Category III may not be used anywhere in Budapest before 8:00 PM on 31 December, nor after 2:00 AM on 1 January. This alone represents a major change, as the previously allowed time window has been cut in half from 12 hours to just six.
However, in many parts of the city, the restrictions go much further.
Three types of zones across the capital
The new rules divide Budapest into three different types of areas, each with its own level of restriction.
In non-protected areas (shown in white on the map below), Category II and III fireworks may only be used between 8:00 PM on New Year’s Eve and 2:00 AM on New Year’s Day.
In protected zones (shown in peach colour on the map below), the use of these fireworks is completely banned throughout 31 December and 1 January. These areas include residential buildings and a 50-metre radius around them, meaning large parts of the city fall under full prohibition during the festive period.
In strictly protected zones (shown in blue on the map below), fireworks in Categories II and III are banned all year round. These areas include nature conservation sites, Natura 2000 areas such as the entire Normafa region, forests, parks, cemeteries, zoos, hospitals, residential care institutions, and, in some cases, their surrounding 100-metre zones.
The official classification of Budapest’s public areas is published by the city authorities, and residents are strongly advised to check which zone their neighbourhood falls into before planning any celebrations.
Police presence and serious fines
The Budapest Police stressed that officers will be out in increased numbers on New Year’s Eve, working closely with public space supervisors to enforce the new rules. Anyone found using fireworks illegally can expect swift action.
Violating the regulation may result in administrative fines ranging from HUF 200,000 to as much as HUF 1.2 million (approximately EUR 500 to over EUR 3,000), depending on the severity of the offence, according to Index.
Police also warned that they will take firm action against the illegal sale of pyrotechnic products, with checks planned throughout the festive period.
Firecrackers remain completely banned
Authorities once again emphasised that firecrackers (petárda in Hungarian) are strictly prohibited across the entire country, at all times of the year. Their use is not only illegal but also dangerous, and offenders may face fines of up to HUF 200,000.
The ban on firecrackers applies nationwide, not just in Budapest, and has been in place for years.
What is still allowed?
The restrictions apply specifically to Category II and Category III fireworks, which include rockets, Roman candles and larger fireworks batteries that produce louder noise and more intense visual effects.
Category I fireworks, which are very low-noise, novelty pyrotechnic items, are not affected by the new regulation and may still be used. The category of each product is clearly indicated on its packaging.
A quieter New Year ahead
City officials say the stricter rules aim to reduce noise, protect vulnerable groups, safeguard animals and natural areas, and improve public safety. As a result, this New Year’s Eve in Budapest is expected to be significantly quieter than in previous years.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the rules in advance to avoid unpleasant – and potentially costly – surprises as the year comes to a close.