New Polish regulations coming in 2026 will significantly restrict where bonfires are permitted, with increased penalties for violations of fire safety rules.
Bonfires on Private Property—Is it Allowed?
Burning bonfires on private property, in gardens, or on recreational plots remains a complex issue. While a complete ban isn’t in place, numerous restrictions apply, primarily stemming from fire safety regulations.
Lighting a bonfire on your own land is not entirely prohibited, but it is subject to specific fire safety rules designed to minimize the risk of fire and protect neighboring properties, forests, and agricultural land.
Key Fire Safety Rules for Bonfires
The most important requirements can be summarized in a few basic rules.
Bonfires must not be lit directly next to fences or property lines, requiring a minimum distance from neighboring properties. If flammable materials like hay, straw, wood, or branches are nearby, the bonfire must be sufficiently distanced from them.
Especially strict rules apply near forests. Fires can only be lit at a safe distance, unless in a designated and secured area. Bonfires must not be located in dry grass, near wooden structures, or in other places where fire could easily spread.
Temporary Bonfire Bans—Often Forgotten
Even if general regulations permit bonfires on private property, local restrictions may apply. Some municipalities introduce temporary bans on open fires during periods of drought, and forest administrations may further limit access to forests and the possibility of lighting bonfires.
During droughts, foresters and firefighters regularly urge caution, as even a small bonfire can quickly spread into a larger fire.
Bonfires in the Forest—When Permitted, When Strictly Forbidden
Forests have some of the most restrictive rules: fires are only allowed in designated areas. A ban covers forests, meadows, peat bogs, and within 100 meters of their borders. Lighting a bonfire in the forest or nearby, outside of designated areas, is generally illegal.
Safe Bonfire Practices in the Forest
Even in legal areas, a number of technical and organizational requirements apply.
ROD Plots – Ban on Recreational Bonfires
A complete ban on bonfires, including recreational fires, is in effect on Family Allotment Garden (ROD) plots. This is due to regulations that eliminate both waste burning and the use of open flames due to smoke and safety concerns.
Stricter Penalties for Bonfires and Fire Hazards in 2026
Violating the rules can lead to serious consequences. As of January 2, 2026, fire safety regulations have been tightened.
Careless starting of a fire, including a bonfire in a prohibited location, is treated as an offense against fire safety and can result in high penalties.
