New Year fireworks warning issued by police, legal rules you must follow

The South African Police Services has urged members of the public against the unlawful and irresponsible use of fireworks during the end-of-year celebrations.

The police warned that in terms of the Explosives Act and applicable municipal safety regulations:

• The discharge of fireworks is prohibited within a 500-metre radius of petrol stations, hospitals, clinics, old-age homes, and animal welfare centres.
• It is further illegal to aim or direct fireworks at any person, animal, motor vehicle, or building, as such actions pose a serious risk of injury and may cause significant damage to property and infrastructure.
• Members of the public are urged to purchase fireworks only from authorised dealers who display valid SAPS-approved permits.
• It is illegal for businesses to sell fireworks to persons under the age of 16. Parents and guardians may be held criminally liable should a minor under their care be found in possession of, or using, fireworks without supervision.
• Street vendors and hawkers are not authorised to sell fireworks.

The SAPS strongly advised parents and guardians to ensure strict supervision of underage children when fireworks are used and warned that failure to comply with the Explosives Act and municipal by-laws may result in immediate police intervention and appropriate legal action.

Meanwhile global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS urged South Africans to avoid setting off fireworks altogether as they celebrate the New Year, warning that the noise and unpredictability cause severe distress to pets, wildlife, and livestock.

In a statement, FOUR PAWS said fireworks, while popular during celebrations, pose a serious risk to animal welfare and often lead to pets fleeing, being injured, or suffering long-term trauma.

“Fireworks may be a thrill for some, but for animals, they’re a source of panic and trauma. Every year, we see pets go missing, injuring themselves, or suffering severe anxiety due to the noise and chaos. It’s time we prioritise compassion over spectacle,” said Fiona Miles, director of FOUR PAWS South Africa.

FOUR PAWS warned that panicked animals often attempt to escape, placing them at risk of traffic accidents or becoming lost. Wildlife and livestock are also affected, with sudden noises causing disorientation and injury. According to the organisation, even a single traumatic experience can result in lifelong noise phobias, which are often worsened by repeated exposure during the festive season.

FOUR PAWS encouraged communities to consider alternatives to fireworks, including silent celebrations such as laser shows or eco-friendly light displays. It also urged residents to support municipalities that enforce firework restrictions and to report illegal use.

Pet owners were advised to prepare safe spaces for animals during the festive period. FOUR PAWS recommended setting up quiet, secure areas with familiar bedding and toys, closing windows and curtains, and playing calming music to reduce outside noise.

The organisation also stressed that pets should not be left alone when fireworks are likely to be set off.

Beyond individual households, FOUR PAWS called for broader community awareness. This includes educating children about the impact of fireworks on animals, sharing information with neighbours, and checking on vulnerable households.

“Let’s shift the culture; celebration doesn’t have to come at the cost of animal welfare. By choosing kindness, we create safer, more inclusive communities,” Miles said.

THE MERCURY