Fireworks crackdown: Weddings, venues and organizers now on the hook

Fireworks in Cyprus just got a lot more complicated and a lot more risky for anyone involved.

Parliament has approved a new law that dramatically tightens the rules on illegal fireworks, hiking fines and spreading criminal responsibility far beyond the person who lights the fuse. Under the new framework, event organizers, venue owners, wedding couples, and even parents hosting baptisms could now face charges if illegal fireworks are used. Lawmakers say it’s a clear attempt to rein in a problem that has spiraled out of control.

The Explosives (Amendment) Law of 2026 passed Thursday with 33 votes in favor, while two MPs chose to abstain. Supporters framed it as a long-overdue crackdown on fires, injuries, terrified animals, and children left shaken by nightly explosions. Skeptics warned it may still end up as another tough law that isn’t enforced.

One of the biggest changes is who’s in charge. Responsibility for inspections and enforcement now clearly sits with the Cyprus Police, ending years of overlap and confusion with the Mines and Quarries Service. MPs pointed out the obvious problem with the old system: fireworks usually go off at night, while the mining department works daytime hours.

The penalties are also much harsher. Fines for illegal use of explosives have been multiplied tenfold, and liability has been widened so organizers and venue operators can no longer claim ignorance. Lawmakers even clarified that in private events, responsibility can extend to the couple getting married or parents organizing a baptism.

The debate in the House was unusually blunt. MPs from across party lines described fireworks as anything but harmless fun, linking them to fires, panic, injured animals, and severe distress for children on the autism spectrum. Some shared personal stories of mistaking fireworks for gunfire or explosions during the night.

Environmental Committee chair Charalambos Theopemptou said the changes were necessary but not enough, calling for a strong public awareness campaign so people understand both the dangers and the consequences. Others warned that illegal fireworks continue to pour into the country through ports, airports, and even mail deliveries, with enforcement often lagging behind.

Several MPs openly questioned whether the law will be applied in practice, pointing to past legislation that remained stuck on paper. Police understaffing and slow responses to complaints were repeatedly mentioned, along with concerns that criminal networks are behind much of the illegal trade.

Still, many lawmakers said the message matters. Even if enforcement proves difficult, they argued, the law sends a signal that fireworks are no longer seen as a harmless tradition, especially when they put children, animals, and forests at risk.