Illegales Feuerwerk in der Schweiz: Risiken und Erkennungsmerkmale

Illegal fireworks in Switzerland: Risks and identifying features

December 3, 2025

Switzerland has a long tradition of fireworks – from families setting off small fireworks on national holidays to professional displays. However, a parallel market exists for illegal fireworks that are neither tested nor approved and pose a significant risk. This article highlights the most important aspects of this issue, showing how to identify illegal products and why purchasing from official retailers is essential.

Why illegal fireworks are dangerous

Fireworks that may be sold in Switzerland must meet strict requirements. These are based, among other things, on the European Pyrotechnics Directive 2013/29/EU, supplemented by Swiss explosives and chemicals legislation. Legal products are tested for functional safety, charge quantity, stability, and ignition behavior.

Illegal fireworks are not subject to these regulations. They can contain significantly higher powder charges, have unpredictable ignition times, or be defectively manufactured. Authorities such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (USA) and the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) have been pointing out for years that serious injuries are almost always caused by illegal or tampered-with products. The reason is simple: Without controls, there are neither binding limits on the amount of explosives nor safety mechanisms to prevent misfires.

Origin and distribution

Illegal fireworks usually enter the country through smuggling. These products often originate from neighboring countries where stricter controls are lacking or where certain items are freely available. Another route is online retail, particularly shops without a legal notice, without CE certification, or with aggressive advertising claims. Private imports exceeding the permitted quantity also fall under the category of illegal.

How to recognize illegal goods

There are clear indicators of unauthorized fireworks. These include a missing CE marking, no manufacturer or importer information, missing or incorrect instructions for use, and packaging without information in a Swiss official language. Firecrackers advertised with extreme effects or unusually high noise levels are also a warning sign. Such products cannot technically comply with the regulated categories F1 or F2.

Legal basis

The legal framework in Switzerland is clear. The Chemicals Risk Reduction Ordinance (ChemRRV), the Explosives Act, and the Explosives Ordinance regulate the proper handling, import, and sale of pyrotechnic articles. Private individuals are only permitted to import limited quantities and only items that meet legal requirements. Anyone who imports, manufactures, or distributes illegal fireworks is committing a criminal offense – regardless of whether the goods are actually ignited.

Accident risks in practice

In Switzerland, media reports and safety institutions register approximately two hundred fireworks accidents annually. This number is low compared internationally, but the severity of the accidents demonstrates the importance of control and caution. In particularly serious incidents—including explosions in garages or warehouses—illegal or improperly stored pyrotechnic products are often suspected of having played a central role.

Why buying from official retailers makes sense

Buyers of fireworks from certified Swiss retailers receive tested products with a clear origin, consistent quality, and legal certainty. Ignition is reliable, the amount of powder is limited, and operation is clearly described. Furthermore, you remain protected from liability: insurance companies can refuse to pay out on illegal fireworks if damage occurs.

An authorized dealer offers not only legal products, but also expert advice, proper storage, and a warranty. This significantly reduces the risk and ensures that fireworks remain handled responsibly and safely.

Conclusion

Illegal fireworks may seem attractive at first glance – be it due to higher volume, lower prices, or supposedly more powerful effects. In reality, however, the risks outweigh the benefits: lack of safety mechanisms, uncontrolled charges, increased risk of accidents, and legal consequences. Anyone who wants to enjoy fireworks without endangering themselves or others should opt for certified products from official retailers and pay attention to clear labeling and origin information.