Alarming growth shows fires Due to human activities and work in the countryside during the current firefighting period, according to data from the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection. Elements show increased offenses, as as of January 1, 2025 they have already been imposed over 600 administrative fines For violations of fire prevention measures in forest, agricultural, related land and land areas. Many of these violations led to a forest fire.

According to a ministry’s announcement, the main concern is awareness and awareness citizens to prevent fires in forest, grassland and agricultural land, parks, groves, special protection areas, as well as nearby land areas. As emphasized, increased attention and responsibility by all citizens is required.

Decorative prohibitions and sanctions during the fire period

A significant proportion of fires is attributed to activities such as lighting and conservation of firethe performance of hot tasks (welding, metal cuts, etc.), the use of sparks and the use of fireworks. In these practices, strict bans are applied:

  • Is forbidden The burning of vegetable vegetation residues, waste and general use of fire in the countryside, regardless of risk indicator.
  • Hot work They are not allowed when the danger index is class 4 or 5, or even the other days without the required preventive measures. ‘Hot tasks’ mean those who produce sparks, naked flames or heat, such as Walling, Cutting, Grinding, Flame Use etc.
  • Is forbidden The use of fireworks when the danger index is 3, 4 or 5, or in other cases without the measures provided.
  • The bee smoking It is prohibited respectively in high categories of risk or without appropriate measures.

Information on permitted or prohibited actions and required measures are included in 9th/2024 Fire Department (Government Gazette B ‘2387).

Non -compliance entails high administrative fines up to up to 50,000 euros, as defined by 19th/2024 Fire Department (B2550).

Criminal consequences for violations and arson

The newest Criminal Code introduces more stringent provisions for the violations of the above, such as:

  • Is explicitly prohibited In days of a danger indicator 4 or 5 conservation of fire, the performance of hot tasks and the use of devices that cause spark or fireworks in forests, forests, grassland and agricultural areas, parks and groves.
  • Offenders are threatened with in prison of at least one year and a fine of at least 10,000 euros. In the event of a serious fire, the sentences are increased to a degree of felony.
  • Arson, in accordance with the new provisions, is punished with imprisonment or imprisonment without the right to be suspended and without redemptionas well as a fine of up to 200,000 euros. Preparatory actions are also treated as a felony. If arson causes death, severe bodily harm or spread to a large extent, the court may order confiscation of the culprit.