Rules for Lighting Fires on Private Property
The State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) has clarified the regulations and penalties for lighting fires in private yards. Under the new requirements, open fires are permitted only at a minimum distance of 30 meters from any buildings. The fire site must be cleared down to bare soil and surrounded by a strip of clean earth at least 2.5 meters wide. It is also crucial to maintain a distance of no less than 25 meters from car parking areas and deciduous forests, and at least 50 meters from coniferous tree stands. These rules are particularly important during dry seasons when wildfire risks are heightened.
Requirements and Penalties
Cooking over an open flame is allowed as close as 5 meters from a house, but only in specially equipped areas. It is strictly forbidden to dispose of hot coals after cooking, and ordinary citizens are prohibited under any circumstances from burning dry grass or rubbish. Only professional rescuers are authorized to burn dry vegetation during firefighting operations in natural ecosystems. Rituals involving bonfires require mandatory approval from local authorities, and windy conditions make any fire-related activities dangerous and illegal.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in significant fines. For citizens, the penalty for illegally burning grass, leaves, or other plant waste ranges from 3,060 to 6,120 hryvnias. For officials, these amounts are substantially higher, from 15,300 to 21,420 hryvnias. Burning dry vegetation in nature reserve areas is punishable by fines of 6,120 to 12,240 hryvnias for citizens and 21,420 to 30,600 hryvnias for officials. Additionally, fines for violating basic fire safety rules range from 1,700 to 3,400 hryvnias for citizens and 3,400 to 5,100 hryvnias for officials.
The SESU emphasizes that 'dry plant residues may only be used for specific domestic needs: cooking in stoves or on barbecues, heating homes with firewood or briquettes, or during traditional rituals.'
In critical situations where flames threaten residential houses or structures, residents must immediately call the emergency number 101. Adherence to these rules is vital for ensuring public safety and preventing fires.
Given the increase in fires related to open flames on private property, the new regulations aim to raise public awareness about safety. The strict fines for violating the norms are intended to reduce fire risks and protect ecosystems and housing from dangerous consequences. Following these rules is a necessary step for preserving public safety and safeguarding the environment.
As the new fire safety regulations come into effect, the urgency of compliance is underscored by recent events in Ukraine. A surge in wildfires, with over 280 incidents reported in just one day, has devastated approximately 160 hectares of land. To understand the scale of this issue and the implications for property owners, it's essential to explore how these recent fires relate to the updated safety measures. For more details on the ongoing battle against wildfires, see the full report on Ukraine's recent firefighting efforts.