Fireworks and flare ban in Istanbul: Governor's Office announces new measures

The Istanbul Governor's Office has announced that new measures have been added to those already in place against forest fires. In a written statement, it was reported that the sale and use of fireworks, signal flares, torches, and similar explosive or flammable materials have been banned across Istanbul between July 16 and October 28.

The Governor's Office statement drew attention to the rising air temperatures with the arrival of the summer season, the increase in human and vehicle mobility in forested areas, and the risk of fires that may occur as a result of intent or negligence.

The statement included the following: "With the rise in air temperatures during the current summer season, the increase in human and vehicle mobility in forested areas, and the need to prevent potential forest fires resulting from intentional or negligent behavior, entry into forested areas was banned between June 8, 2026, and October 15, 2026, by Governor's Office Decision No. 2026/1. However, it has become necessary to take additional measures to supplement those already in place in order to prevent the increasing number of forest fire incidents as the summer season continues to have an effect."

ADDITIONAL MEASURE DECISION TAKEN

The Governor's Office stated that a new ban application has been implemented in addition to existing precautions. The statement said, "In this context, the sale and use of fireworks, signal flares, torches, etc., explosive/flammable materials across Istanbul have been banned between July 16, 2026, and October 28, 2026."