- Obtaining a permit is required for open fires
- Which rules you should still follow for the campfire in the garden
Many people have wonderful memories from their childhoods, in which the campfire crackled on cozy summer evenings and sausages or bread were fried over the flames. Such experiences are no longer so easy these days, because an open fireplace usually requires a permit.
A fire basket or fire bowl is not considered an open fire
Obtaining a permit is required for open fires
Whether you are allowed to create a fireplace in your own garden or not depends on the specific regulations in your municipality. The regulations differ locally or regionally, but in most cases require approval - at least as long as it is a so-called open fire. A fire in a fire bowl or a fire basket with a diameter of less than one meter is not considered an open fire and can therefore be used without a permit. For any other fireplace, on the other hand, you can obtain one from your local public order office. Anyone who runs a campfire without a permit faces severe fines. In most cases, permits are only granted at Easter (for the Easter bonfire) or at certain times of the year.
Only collect wood with a wood collection certificate
So once you have obtained the permit, you will of course also need wood for your campfire. As long as you search on your own property, collecting wood is not a problem - in forests, parks etc. even collecting twigs and branches is a criminal offence, not to mention sawing off or cutting off pieces of wood that are still on the tree. So that you don't get into trouble because of wood theft, you can apply for a so-called wood collection certificate from your municipality. This only costs a few euros, but is limited in time.
Which rules you should still follow for the campfire in the garden
In addition, you must follow certain rules when lighting and maintaining an open fire. If you violate these, the approval granted can be withdrawn. The same applies if neighbors and other residents complain.
- Only burn dry and natural wood.
- Garbage has no place in fire.
- Cardboard, cardboard and paper also do not belong in it.
- When it is very dry and there is a risk of forest fires, no fire may be lit.
- The same applies to strong winds or storms.
- Fire must always be supervised by an adult.
- Have suitable extinguishing agents ready.
tips
Always pile up firewood just before lighting it or rearrange it before lighting it - hedgehogs and other small animals often hide in such piles of wood.