Remember about the general ban on bonfires from April 15

On Thursday, April 15, a general bonfire ban comes into force. The ban is valid until September 15.

No bonfires allowed from April 15 to September 15

From April 15 to 15 September, there is a general ban on burning bonfires in Norway. Then you are usually not allowed to light bonfires, use disposable grills, fire pits or other open fire sources in the forest and forest areas without a permit from the commune.

– If you choose to light a fire in nature, you are also responsible, whether it is during or outside the fire ban period. We hope everyone makes the right decisions and enjoys the weather outside,” said managing director Rolf Søtorp of the Norwegian Fire Protection Association.

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Climate change has meant that the fire season may exceed the period of the general ban on bonfires. Therefore, every municipality in Norway can ban bonfires at any time of the year if there is a particular fire risk. This was laid down in § 3 of the Fire Prevention Ordinance, which was extended as of June 11 last year.

Many municipalities designate places for bonfires

The person who lights the fire is responsible for putting it out completely and cleaning up after himself/herself. Many municipalities facilitate bonfires by designating approved bonfire areas. They are usually allowed to be used all year round. Check local regulations in your municipality. Søtorp recommends using such places where they are available.

Remember that sparks can fly far away. Even if it's wet and humid where you are, it can be very dry nearby. Søtorp advises caution and points out that many grass and forest fires have started as a result of insufficiently extinguished fires or left-over disposable barbecues.

Principles of fire protection in the forest:

1. familiarize yourself with hazard warnings fire regulations and local regulations and prohibitions before lighting a fire.
2. Choose safe places for a fire, avoid combustible areas and take wind conditions into account.
3. Be careful when lighting a fire in nature, even on short trips.
4. Never leave a fire unattended.
5. Remember that a campfire can produce sparks, embers, and smolder underground, even when you think the fire has been put out.
6. Always know where you are and call emergency number 110 in the event of an out of control fire.
7. There is no shame in giving up sausage baking; eat food cold if necessary, or take hot sausages in a thermos with you.

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