A growing number of retailers in the Czech Republic are refraining from selling fireworks. At the same time, the government has introduced new regulations for pyrotechnics to promote safety and environmental protection.
Demand for fireworks in the Czech Republic peaks during the Christmas and New Year season, generating annual sales of up to CZK 1 billion. Despite this, some retailers have opted to remove fireworks from their offerings entirely.
“This year, we will no longer sell pyrotechnics. We want to inspire others to act more responsibly and considerately. We are convinced that caring for the environment in which we operate and seeking more sustainable solutions is the right way forward,” explains Katarína Navrátilová, CEO of Tesco ČR, in an interview with the news portal iDnes.cz.
The supermarket chain Billa has not sold pyrotechnics for three consecutive years, while Bauhaus has abstained from selling New Year’s Eve fireworks since 2020. Both companies cite a commitment to more responsible practices, particularly concerning animal welfare and environmental protection.
Similarly, customers will not find fireworks in online supermarkets like Rohlík.cz and Košík.cz. However, retailers such as Penny and Lidl continue to include firecrackers, sparklers, and other pyrotechnic products in their New Year’s ranges.
In July, the Czech government amended laws on pyrotechnics to enhance safety in the sale, storage, and use of such products. Regulatory authorities are now empowered to temporarily confiscate pyrotechnics in cases of suspected serious violations, such as sales in prohibited areas, pending further investigation.
The updated law also mandates a minimum safety distance of 250 meters when setting off fireworks near specific facilities, including hospitals, retirement homes, residential buildings, emergency shelters, rescue stations, or zoos.
Categories F4, T2, and P2 pyrotechnics are now restricted to professionals with the requisite qualifications. Previously, such expertise was required only for limited activities like purchasing, disposing of, or conducting fireworks displays.
Handling pyrotechnics without appropriate certification can result in fines of up to CZK 500,000.
