Campfire

The general open-fire ban (bålforbud) 15 April – 15 September

A fire at an established fire site

The general open-fire ban runs from 15 April to 15 September. You may still light a fire where it is obvious that no fire can start.

From 15 April to 15 September the general open-fire ban (bålforbud) applies. During this period it is forbidden to light a fire in or near forest and other utmark. The ban is set out in the regulations on fire prevention, section 3:

‘In the period from 15 April to 15 September it is forbidden to light a fire or handle flammable objects in or near forest and other utmark.’

This covers campfires, disposable barbecues, charcoal grills, fire pans and other open fire. ‘Near’ means you cannot move a few metres out onto a path and count yourself as being outside it — sparks and embers spread, and dry heather and grass catch fire easily.

When you may still light a fire

The ban is not absolute. There are three exceptions:

  • The municipality (kommune) has given you permission.
  • The municipality has allowed it through a local regulation.
  • It is obvious that no fire can start.

The last of these matters most in practice. If a thick snowpack still lies, or it has rained for days, you may light a fire even though the date falls within the ban period. The same applies on a svaberg right down by the sea, far from any vegetation. The judgement is yours, and it should be strict: if you are in doubt, you refrain.

A total ban in dry periods

In dry periods with a high risk of forest fire, the municipality or the state may introduce a total ban. Then even the smallest fires are forbidden — a coffee fire, a disposable barbecue, a charcoal grill, a fire pan, a gas grill and a stormkjøkken (windproof trekking stove) with fuel — in and near forest, in the shoreline zone and among the skerries. Keep an eye on local warnings and the forest-fire risk before you set out.

Stormkjøkken and cooking stoves

A stormkjøkken (windproof trekking stove) has a closed, controlled flame and is usually considered safer than an open fire. Outside a total ban you can as a rule use it with ordinary care even during the ban period — on a stable, non-flammable surface and well away from dry grass and heather. Under a total ban, the stormkjøkken is forbidden too.

You are always responsible

The duty of care applies all year round, not only during the ban period. You are responsible for ensuring that a fire you light does not get out of control, and a fire must never be left until it is completely out — pour on water or snow and stir until it is cold. Anyone who is negligent can be held liable for damages, whatever the date.

The rules vary between municipalities. Check what applies locally before you light a fire.

Next steps

Learn more

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  • Based on forskrift om brannforebygging § 3 and guidance from DSB. Snuitide.