End of Summer, Start of Bonfire Season: National Ban Lifted

Regulations regarding bonfires may change depending on local weather conditions and fire risk. Before lighting a fire, you should check the current situation in the municipality you are in. It is essential to follow safety rules concerning the location and method of lighting a bonfire.

You must also ensure that you are in control of the situation and can prevent any fire or other hazards. – Pay attention to the weather and wind conditions. During dry periods with a high risk of forest fires, municipalities may introduce local bans, even now in the autumn-winter season – comments Bente Lier, Secretary General of Norsk Friluftsliv.

Regulations and advice regarding bonfires in Norway are enforced by, among others, the Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB). The institution points out that violating the duty of caution or breaking the ban may result in a fine or even imprisonment. According to Norwegian law:

• the person lighting the bonfire is responsible for fire safety,
• the responsible person must be of legal age and may not consume alcohol,
• the bonfire must be located a significant distance from the nearest buildings and vegetation,
• fire extinguishing equipment should be available near the bonfire,
• the bonfire may not be lit on rocks,
• before leaving the campsite, the bonfire must be completely extinguished.

There are special places in Norway that may be subject to a year-round ban on lighting bonfires. Strict regulations apply, among others, to nature reserves and national parks. In protected areas, using fire is possible only with the land manager’s permission or in specially designated camping areas.

Sources: Norsk Friluftsliv, DSB, MojaNorwegia.pl