Why Fireworks Categories Matter
Fireworks are captivating—especially on New Year’s Eve and Swiss National Day. But not every firework is allowed for everyone. Switzerland clearly differentiates between categories based on hazard level, noise, and usage.
Knowing the F1 to F3 categories helps you avoid bad purchases, protect yourself and others, and stay within the law. This article explains which fireworks you can legally buy as a private individual, what is prohibited, and how to use fireworks safely.
Category F1 – Light Fireworks for Beginners
F1 products are especially safe. Suitable for children aged 12 and up, they can even be used indoors with caution. The risk is low and the effects are subtle.
Typical F1 products include:
- Sparklers
- Smoke balls
- Snap bangers
- Small table fountains
Regulations:
Available from age 12. No license or training required. These items are ideal for family celebrations or a quiet New Year’s Eve.
Category F2 – The Classic New Year’s Fireworks
F2 includes the most popular types of fireworks. Louder and more powerful than F1, they are only to be used outdoors.
Examples include:
- Rockets
- Volcanoes
- Fountains
- Roman candles
- Firework batteries
Regulations:
Permitted from age 16 without a license or training. Important: Keep a safe distance and buy only from reputable sellers with CE marking and German instructions.
Category F3 – For Responsible Adults
F3 includes powerful fireworks with significantly more explosive force. In Switzerland, they may be sold to private individuals aged 18 and up. No special permit or training is needed.
Typical F3 items:
- Large rockets
- Multi-shot batteries with long range
- Thunder King or sugar canes
Important:
Although F3 fireworks can be bought and used, they are subject to stricter safety requirements. They are not available everywhere and must be handled with great care.
Quick Overview – Comparison of F1 to F3
| Category | Age Requirement | Usage | Permit Required? |
| F1 | from 12 years | Indoor & outdoor | No |
| F2 | from 16 years | Outdoor only | No |
| F3 | from 18 years | Outdoor only | No |
More Categories at a Glance: T1, T2, P1, P2, and F4
Besides the common F1 to F3 categories, Switzerland has additional pyrotechnic classes designed for specific or professional use.
Category F4 – For Professionals Only
These fireworks are for commercial use only. They require a burn permit and formal training (e.g. FWA/FWB). Sales to private individuals are prohibited.
Category T1 – Stage Effects for Private Use
T1 products like theater flashes or indoor fountains may be used by individuals aged 18+. No training required, but available only through specialist retailers.
Category T2 – Professional Stage Pyrotechnics
T2 items are for commercial shows only. Usage requires professional training and authorization.
Category P1 – Signal Devices for Civilian Use
Includes items like flares, smoke grenades, or hand torches. They’re freely available from age 18 and can be used without training—but only in approved situations, such as for safety or training purposes.
Category P2 – Commercial Pyrotechnics
P2 products are reserved for professionals. Purchase and use require official authorization and expert knowledge.
What to Look for When Buying
To ensure a safe and legal fireworks experience, check the following:
- Is there a CE mark with a four-digit test number?
- Is the age restriction clearly visible?
- Is there a German-language instruction manual?
- Was the product purchased from an official retailer?
Avoid fireworks from the black market or abroad without proper labeling—especially loud items like firecrackers or thunder claps. These are prohibited in Switzerland.
Importing Fireworks – What Applies When Traveling
If you want to bring fireworks across the border, you must follow clear rules. You may import up to 2.5 kg gross weight per person per day of F1, F2, and F3 fireworks—no permit needed. This limit is not cumulative across multiple people.
You may not import:
- Ground-exploding fireworks (e.g. firecrackers, thunder claps)
- Fireworks without CE mark or without German instructions
- Pyrotechnic items in Category F4
To import larger quantities, you need a permit from the Central Office for Explosives (fedpol).
Where and When Can I Set Off Fireworks?
In Switzerland, F1 and F2 fireworks may be legally used during two events:
- New Year’s Eve: December 31 / January 1
- National Day: August 1
Exact times are determined by cantons and municipalities. In dry conditions or high wildfire risk, fireworks bans may be imposed.
Tip: Check your municipality’s website a few days before the event.
Safety First – Regardless of the Category
Even legally purchased fireworks carry risks. Always:
- Read the instructions before lighting
- Maintain a safe distance—at least 8 meters for F2, more for F3
- Never light in your hand
- Use stable, fireproof surfaces
- Safely dispose of duds—never relight them
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use F3 fireworks as a private individual?
Yes, from age 18—no extra permit or training required.
What should I know about importing from abroad?
Only CE-certified fireworks with German instructions are allowed. Do not import ground-exploding fireworks.
When do I need a permit?
For quantities over 2.5 kg or for categories like F4, T2, or P2—a burn permit is required.
Is quiet fireworks an option?
Yes—mainly fountains, effect batteries, or light-based items without bangs.
What happens if I break the rules?
Illegal import or use can result in fines, legal charges, and confiscation.
Conclusion
To use fireworks safely and legally, you must understand the differences between F1, F2, and F3. In Switzerland, even private individuals can buy powerful F3 fireworks—as long as they meet the age requirement and act responsibly.
A quick look at the label, a safety check, and proper preparation ensure your celebration is not only spectacular but also safe.