Many people have wonderful memories from their childhood, in which the campfire crackled on cozy summer evenings and sausage or bread sticks were fried over the flames. Such experiences are no longer so easy these days, as an open fireplace usually requires a permit.
Is a fire pit allowed in the garden?
A fire pit in the garden is permitted if it is not an open fire orapproval was obtained from the public order office. Fire bowls or fire baskets with a diameter of less than one meter do not require a permit. For larger fireplaces, local regulations must be observed.
A permit is required for open fires
Whether or not setting up a fire pit in your own garden is allowed depends on the specific regulations in your community. The regulations differ locally or regionally, but in most cases they require approval - at least as long as it is a so-called open fire. However, a fire in a fire bowl or fire basket with a diameter of less than one meter is not considered an open fire and can therefore be operated without a permit. For any other fireplace, however, you can obtain one from your local public order office. Anyone who operates a campfire without a permit faces severe fines. Permits are usually only issued at Easter time (for the Easter fire) or at certain times of the year.
Collect wood only with a wood collection certificate
So once you have obtained permission, you will of course also need wood for your campfire. As long as you search on your own property, collecting wood is not a problem - in forests, parks, etc., collecting twigs and branches is actually a punishable offense, not to mention sawing or cutting parts of wood that are still on the tree. So that you don't get into trouble because of wood theft, you can apply for a so-called wood collection certificate from your municipality. This only costs a few euros, but is limited in time.
Which rules you should follow for the campfire in the garden
Furthermore, you must adhere to certain rules when lighting and maintaining an open fire. If you violate this, the approval granted can be withdrawn. The same applies if neighbors and other residents complain.
- Only burn dry and natural wood.
- Waste has no place in the fire.
- Cardboard, cardboard and paper are also not included.
- No fire may be lit in times of extreme drought and risk of forest fires.
- The same applies to strong winds or storms.
- Fire must always be supervised by an adult.
- Have suitable extinguishing media available.
Tip
Always pile up firewood shortly before lighting or rearrange it before lighting - hedgehogs and other small animals often hide in such piles of wood.
