Use of pyrotechnic products in Lithuania: what every resident must know
As the festive season approaches, questions increasingly arise about the use of pyrotechnic products and the dangers they pose. Lithuanian legislation strictly regulates the acquisition, storage, and use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic items. Violations may result in financial sanctions, so it is important to know what is permitted and what is prohibited. In December, the Lithuanian Police intensify control over the trade in pyrotechnic products.
Which pyrotechnic items are prohibited from distribution and use
According to the Law on the Control of the Circulation of Civil Pyrotechnic Products of the Republic of Lithuania, it is prohibited to distribute and use most civil pyrotechnic products within 30 meters of schools, medical and rehabilitation institutions, funeral facilities or places of worship, unless such action is coordinated with their administrators. Exceptions apply only to fireworks of category F1 and items of category P1, which are considered the lowest-risk products.
It is also prohibited to distribute pyrotechnic products at petrol stations and their premises, and to sell fireworks of category F2 for most of the year (from January 1 to November 30), unless the trader has a special permit. The use of pyrotechnic products is prohibited between 10:00 pm and 08:00 am if it disturbs public peace, except on public holidays and at mass events with municipal permits.
The country also prohibits the use of expired, mechanically damaged, or non‑CE‑marked pyrotechnic products, or using them for purposes other than intended. Pyrotechnic products may not be used or purchased by drunk, intoxicated persons or those without the right to acquire such items.
Additionally, Lithuania has prohibited the use of firecrackers of categories P1, F2, and F3 and other similar explosive items intended solely to create sound effects. These items are considered to pose excessive risks to human health, the environment, and public order.
Age restrictions
Pyrotechnic items may only be purchased and used by persons of certain ages:
• fireworks of category F1 may be used from the age of 14;
• fireworks of categories F2, F3 and items of categories T1, P1 may be purchased and used only by adults – from the age of 18;
• pyrotechnic items of categories F4, T2, and P2 are intended only for professionals – pyrotechnicians with special permits.
Situations where using pyrotechnic products is considered a violation
Residents should know that police may be called in cases where:
• pyrotechnic items are used in prohibited places;
• fireworks disturb public peace (especially at night);
• prohibited firecrackers that produce only sound are used;
• pyrotechnic items are used while intoxicated;
• pyrotechnic items are used by minors;
• unmarked, expired, or damaged items are used;
• pyrotechnic products are used near windows, buildings or other objects, creating risks to public safety.
Fines for violations
The Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Lithuania provides the following sanctions:
• violations of the procedure for the production, transportation, storage, or distribution of pyrotechnics are subject to a fine of EUR 90-600;
• violations of the procedure for the use or acquisition (e.g., fireworks set off in prohibited places or at prohibited time) are subject to a fine of EUR 14-60.
How many residents are fined per year and what happens on New Year’s Eve
In 2024, 121 people were punished for violations of the procedure for the use of pyrotechnic items under Article 483 of the Code of Administrative Offences. Officials note that although pyrotechnic products are used most intensively on New Year’s Eve, violations during this period are not particularly numerous, since the use of fireworks is not prohibited. Nevertheless, the rules regarding distance, safety and use only for the intended purpose apply on this night as well.
Residents are reminded that the use of pyrotechnic products is not only a festive attribute but also a serious responsibility. Ignoring safety measures can result not only in fines but also in accidents.
If neighbours use pyrotechnic products at prohibited time or in prohibited places, you may contact the police via the emergency number 112. Fines for violations of the procedure for the use of pyrotechnic products range from EUR 14 to EUR 60. If you notice illegal trade in prohibited or uncertified pyrotechnic products on social networks, please report it by email to [email protected].
Articles 4-6 of the Law on the Control of the Circulation of Civil Pyrotechnic Products of the Republic of Lithuania define fireworks as follows:
1. fireworks of category F1 – fireworks posing very low risk, producing very little noise, intended for use in enclosed areas, as well as for use in residential premises;
2. fireworks of category F2 – fireworks posing low risk, producing little noise, intended for use outdoors in enclosed areas;
3. fireworks of category F3 – fireworks posing medium risk, intended for use in large open areas, with noise levels not exceeding permitted limits;
4. fireworks of category F4 – fireworks posing high risk, intended to be handled (supervised) and used only by pyrotechnicians, with noise levels not exceeding permitted limits;
5. civil pyrotechnic products of category T1 – products intended for the use on stage, posing low risk;
6. civil pyrotechnic products of category T2 – products intended to be handled (supervised) and used on stage only by pyrotechnicians;
7. civil pyrotechnic products of category P1 – products other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic products, posing low risk;
8. civil pyrotechnic products of category P2 – products other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic products, intended to be handled (supervised) and used only by pyrotechnicians.
Last updated: 19-12-2025
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