Karnataka Diwali Crackers Rules will restrict firecracker bursting to just two hours each evening during the three-day Deepavali celebrations from November 8 to November 10, 2026.
The state government has permitted firecrackers only between 8 pm and 10 pm, with certified green crackers being the only approved option.
The restrictions have been announced to control air and noise pollution and ensure safer celebrations.
Karnataka Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy said district administrations and enforcement agencies have been instructed to implement the guidelines strictly.
 Karnataka Diwali Crackers Rules: 8 PM to 10 PM Only
According to the new guidelines, residents can burst firecrackers only during the designated two-hour window on November 8, 9 and 10. Bursting crackers outside these hours will not be permitted.
The government has directed district commissioners, police officials and local authorities to ensure that the timing restrictions are followed across the state.
The guidelines are based on Supreme Court directions concerning the use of firecrackers during festivals.
The restrictions are intended to limit pollution while allowing people to celebrate Deepavali.
 Only Certified Green Crackers Allowed
Karnataka has also made it mandatory for people to use certified green crackers during the festival. These products and their packaging must carry the prescribed green-cracker mark and a QR code.
Consumers have been advised to check these markings before purchasing firecrackers.
Products without the required green-cracker identification and QR code will not be recognised as approved green crackers and may be seized by authorities.
District environmental officers will verify the markings during inspections.
Officials have also been instructed to monitor firecracker shops and storage facilities to prevent the sale of unauthorised products.
 Firecrackers Banned Near Hospitals and Schools
The government has directed residents not to burst firecrackers near hospitals, educational institutions and other designated restricted areas.
The minister has also urged people to celebrate responsibly and avoid causing distress to children, senior citizens, birds and stray animals.
Special district-level task forces will be formed to monitor compliance.
These teams will include police personnel, fire department officials, health officers, tahsildars, environmental officers and other representatives.
If prohibited firecrackers are found stored in warehouses, authorities may seal the premises and initiate criminal proceedings against those responsible.
 Strict Checks on Illegal Firecracker Sales and Transport
The Karnataka government has instructed police and other departments to monitor the sale, storage and transportation of firecrackers.
Special checks will be conducted at state borders to prevent the illegal transportation of banned firecrackers from neighbouring states.
Authorities have also been directed to take action against vehicles involved in transporting prohibited products.
District administrations will conduct awareness campaigns through posters, pamphlets and audio-visual messages at railway stations, metro stations, bus stands and shopping malls.
Local television and radio channels will also be used to communicate the guidelines.
Local bodies have been asked to ensure proper disposal of solid waste generated during the festival.
Residents across Karnataka should therefore check the approved cracker markings, follow the 8 pm to 10 pm time limit and avoid using fireworks in restricted areas.
The government has appealed to people to celebrate Deepavali with more traditional lamps and fewer firecrackers.
