Lighting fires
You may light a fire if conditions are safe, but you bear full responsibility for ensuring it is done safely.
When building a fire, it is important to choose the right location, such as on gravel or sand. Preferably, use a camping stove or a fixed barbecue area. Set it up on a flat, non-flammable surface, away from dry grass and vegetation, and make sure to always supervise it. Keep it small and away from large rocks or cliffs, to prevent cracking and permanent damage.
Keep in mind
- Gather fallen twigs, cones, and branches for fuel, and leave live trees, bark, and branches undisturbed.
- Use small materials from the ground, not fallen trees, as they support the ecosystem.
- Ensure the fire is fully extinguished and leave nothing behind.
- In very dry or windy conditions bring food that doesn’t require cooking.
- To prevent African swine fever virus (ASFV), take your food scraps with you.
Choosing the right location for your fire
Pick a spot where there is no risk of the fire spreading or damaging the soil and vegetation. Gravel or sandy areas are ideal. Avoid moss, peat bogs, or humus-rich forest soils, as these are more likely to catch fire and could smoulder unnoticed, causing a potential flare-up later.
Do not build a fire on or near large rocks. The intense heat can cause the rock to crack and permanently disfigure it.
Frequent fire bans
During dry weather or high fire-risk conditions, local authorities (county administrative boards and municipal fire and rescue services) may impose fire bans. No open fires are allowed when a fire ban is in effect, not even in purpose-built fireplaces.
However, during some fire bans, you may still be allowed to use a small camp stove or charcoal grill, provided you take extra care.
You can always check the current fire risk level with local municipalities, county administrative boards, rescue services, camping sites, or tourist offices.
Special rules for national parks and nature reserves
National parks and nature reserves often have special regulations for lighting fires. In some areas, there may be a total fire ban, while in others, fires may only be allowed in designated fire places.
These rules will be clearly posted in English on notice boards in the area. Make sure to check in advance if you’re planning to light a fire on your outing.