The risk associated with burning grass is enormous. Fire is an elemental force, and we can never be certain that we will be able to control it. A moment of inattention, a stronger gust of wind or the terrain may cause a much larger fire. In such a case, the possible consequences are truly serious.

An uncontrolled fire, fanned by the wind, can easily spread to buildings or forested areas, causing major losses. Fire can also be dangerous for bystanders and for those who start it.

Very often, the meadows being burned are located beside roads. In such cases, smoke may seriously reduce drivers’ visibility, creating an additional hazard.

The ecological aspect is also significant. Wild animals such as hedgehogs, hares and partridges fall victim to the fire, while the soil in the “burned areas” becomes barren.

Komenda Główna Policji: – BURNING GRASS IS REALLY DANGEROUS AND ALSO PROHIBITED!

What are the penalties for burning grass?

Burning grass is punishable. The ban on burning grass is contained in the following legal acts:

  • The Act of 16 April 2004 on Nature Conservation (Journal of Laws 2018, item 142):
    • Article 131(12): “The burning of meadows, pastures, wasteland, ditches, roadside strips, railway routes, reed beds and rushes is prohibited.”
    • Article 131: “Anyone who burns meadows, pastures, wasteland, ditches, roadside strips, railway routes, reed beds or rushes is subject to arrest or a fine.”
  • The Act of 28 September 1991 on Forests (Journal of Laws 2017, item 788):
    • Article 30(3)(3): “In forests and forested areas, as well as within 100 metres of the forest boundary, activities and actions that may cause danger are prohibited, in particular: lighting fires outside places designated for this purpose by the forest owner or forest superintendent, using an open flame, burning the topsoil and plant residues.”

Serious penalties apply for offences of this type:

  • Article 82 of the Act of 20 May 1971, Code of Petty Offences (Journal of Laws 2018, item 618):
    • arrest, a reprimand or a fine which, pursuant to Article 24 § 1, may range from PLN 20 to PLN 5,000
  • Article 163 § 1 of the Act of 6 June 1997, Criminal Code (Journal of Laws 1997, No. 88, item 553, as amended): “Anyone who causes an event endangering the life or health of many people or property of considerable value, taking the form of a fire, is subject to imprisonment for between one and 10 years.”

Uniformed services:

Spring fires caused by burning grass pose a serious threat to people, animals, forests, homes and farm buildings. We appeal for common sense! Before you set fire to anything, consider whether you may endanger your own life and the lives of others.