Authorities warn of financial penalties for burning the Old Year in unauthorized spaces.
The tradition of burning the Old Year every December 31 It is one of the most beloved and anticipated customs in Colombia to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year with renewed energy. However, carrying out this burning in the public roads or without the corresponding authorizations It can have economic consequences. The authorities regulate this practice to protect the security and citizen coexistence and if you decide to light fires without care or permits, you can face a considerable fine. Here we explain how much it is and why it is applied.
More news:Why is the Old Year burned in Colombia and where does this tradition come from?
How much is the fine for burning a Año Viejo?
Burn an Old Year doll in open and public places Without the necessary authorizations, it is considered behavior that can put the safety of the life and physical integrity from other people or cause accidents and damage due to fire and pyrotechnics. For this reason, the National Police and Coexistence Code It contemplates sanctions for those who do so without the relevant security measures or in unauthorized spaces.
In 2025this sanction is classified as a fine type 4the highest category within general infractions and can amount to around $1,386,666. This figure is based on what is established in the articles related to behaviors that affect the safety and integrity of people, including the manipulation of pyrotechnic articles or flammable dolls uncontrolled.
What are the additional risks of burning an Año Viejo?
Beyond the economic cost, it is important to understand that burning the Old Year improvisedly can cause other problems. The use of gunpowder without permitshighly flammable materials or doing so in the middle of crowds without technical supervision increases the risk of serious accidents, burns or fires unwanted.
For this reason, many mayors and local authorities insist that the burning of traditional dolls be carried out in controlled spaces or within authorized eventswith the accompaniment of emergency organizations such as Firefighters and Police to ensure safety.
You may be interested in:WhatsApp will stop working on several cell phones from January 2026: these users will be affected
Recommendations to enjoy the New Year without sanctions
If you want to start 2026 without worries or fines, here are some useful tips:
1. Find out about local regulations: Each municipality or city may have specific regulations about where and how dolls can be burned.
2. Request permissions if necessary: Some municipalities require prior authorization for events with fire or pyrotechnics.
3. Choose safe areas: Avoid doing it on narrow streets, near houses or flammable materials.
4. Accompany him with security: Having water, a fire extinguisher or, if necessary, the supervision of the Fire Department can make a difference.
