Germany introduces tightened border controls with Poland. They're looking for it in cars

German customs and national police tightened up checks on the Polish-German border, especially in the context of transport prohibited pyrotechnic materials. Increased controls are part of efforts to combat the illicit trade of fireworks, peculiarly so-called. ‘Polish firecrackers’which are strictly prohibited in Germany. In the days preceding fresh Year's, peculiar attention is paid to pyrotechnic productswhich may consequence in advanced fines and goods being confiscated across the border. What should be known about fresh controls and what fireworks are prohibited in Germany?

Checks at Bad Muskau-Łęknica border crossing point

On December 28, 2024 national police carried out a peculiar control operation at the border crossing point Bad Muskau-Greece. The intent of the action was to carefully check the goods transported, and especially pyrotechnic materials. Services focused on fireworks of category F3, which may be utilized in Germany only by persons with appropriate permits. As a consequence of the actions carried out, officers noted that Not only illegal material caused problemsbut besides those that were mislabelled.

During the three-hour check-up, almost all travelers followed the rules, nevertheless one infringement has been noted. Police guarantee that checks are carried out throughout the border in the coming days, especially in the period before fresh Year's Eve, erstwhile the interest in fireworks is peculiarly large.

Fireworks in Germany – what are the rules?

Germany has introduced strict rules on the sale and usage of fireworks, especially in the context of the upcoming fresh Year's Eve. Under applicable law, the sale of category fireworks F2 (fireworks intended for home use) is permitted only during the period from 28 to 31 December. These fireworks can only be fired in New Year's Eve and fresh Year's Eve. However, there is an exception due to the fact that any German cities, specified as Berlin is Munich, have introduced a complete ban on the usage of fireworks in circumstantial zones with the aim of protecting historical buildings and ensuring public safety.

Category of fireworks in Germany

Fireworks in Germany are classified according to categories that find who can usage them and under which conditions:

• F1 – tiny fireworks that can be utilized by people over 12 years old,
• F2 – home fireworks, for usage by adults, but only during the period from 28 to 31 December,
• F3 and F4 – professional pyrotechnic materials which can only be utilized by persons with peculiar authorisation.

Certification requirements

In Germany, in order for fireworks to be legal, they must have CE certificate and designation BAM (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung), which guarantees their compliance with EU safety standards. These products must besides comply with stringent wellness and environmental legislation.

What are the consequences of illegally transporting fireworks?

German laws are ruthless towards those who effort to bring illegal fireworks into the country. Persons who are caught carrying pyrotechnic materials that do not meet the requirements must be regarded as advanced fines and confiscation of goods. In the most hard cases, persons caught transporting prohibited fireworks may be brought to justice. It is worth noting that border control may besides include control of documents and check that the goods are appropriately marked.

Recommendations of the German Police

German police call on all buyers to pay peculiar attention to the marking of purchased fireworks. Officers urge the selection of CE certified products and registration number, which ensures their compliance with European safety standards. In addition, for those planning to acquisition pyrotechnic materials, it is recommended to choice fireworks in category F1 or F2which are authorised for private use.

Changing rules at the border – what is worth knowing?

Increased controls at the Polish-German border aim not only to defend against illegal movement of fireworks, but besides to improve safety in connection with the upcoming Christmas season. Service announces that check sites will be Rotate on a need-to-need basis and in the coming days, more action can be expected, especially in the preceding period New Year's Eve.

Increased border controls, especially in the context of pyrotechnic materials, are not only a way to combat illegal trade, but besides a way to guarantee road and urban safety. erstwhile preparing to travel, it is worth reading the regulations in force to avoid unpleasant surprises.