What is a general bonfire ban?
In Norway, everyone must show caution and act in such a way that a fire does not occur. This applies to everyone, all the time and everywhere.
In addition, we have a general bonfire ban from 15 April to 15 September, where it is forbidden to light bonfires and barbecues in, or near, forests and other outlying areas. The municipality can still give permission to light a fire, if you apply for this. Always check which rules apply to your municipality before lighting a fire.
The beach will most often be considered uncultivated land and will then be covered by the general bonfire ban. If you still want to light a fire or barbecue, you must apply for a permit from the municipality.
Although there is a general ban on bonfires, you are allowed to light a fire where it is obvious that it cannot start a fire. It takes a lot of precipitation for it obviously not to lead to a fire.
In the event of a violation of the duty of care or the general bonfire ban, you can be punished with a fine or imprisonment.
Can I grill in my own garden?
If you are going to barbecue in areas that are far away from forests and outlying areas, for example in gardens or at adapted barbecue and fire pits in parks, the general duty of care applies. This means that you must be careful, responsible and the fire must be completely extinguished before you leave the site.
If you use disposable barbecues, be sure to consider the fire hazard against the surface. Under the disposable grill, it gets hot and the surface can quickly catch fire or be damaged by the heat. Never place the grill directly on the ground.
Is it allowed to have a bonfire on Midsummer?
You must apply to the municipality where you live for permission to light Midsummer bonfires. Together with the fire service, the municipality will then consider, among other things, where to apply for permission to light a fire, the risk of fire and the weather conditions. The fire service can set conditions for the permit. Anyone who applies to light a fire must of course also have clarified with the landowner that a fire can be lit.