Istanbul and Yalova provinces in Turkey have banned the sale and use of fireworks. This move is part of the preventative measures being taken to help curb the widespread forest fires currently happening across Turkey.
Istanbul's governorate stated that it's now forbidden to sell or use explosive and flammable items like fireworks, signal flares, and torches throughout the entire city. They clarified that this decision is effective from July 29th until October 28th.
The statement explained, "With the summer heat ramping up, we've seen an increase in forest fires in various parts of our country." It also mentioned, "We'd already put a ban on entering forested areas in Istanbul between June 23rd and October 15th, trying to prevent these devastating fires." The governorate also confirmed that "security forces, gendarmerie, and relevant inspection agencies will keep up their checks without interruption. Legal action will be taken against individuals and businesses that don't follow this decision."
Meanwhile, Yalova province's Forest Fire Prevention and Control Committee made a similar call to reduce the risk of fires breaking out in their area. According to Yalova's statement, using fireworks within the province's borders is off-limits starting July 28, 2025, until further notice.
