Outdoor fires in Ticino: Ban lifted from 1 May 2024

Context

In brief

• The Ticino Council of State has lifted the ban on lighting fires in the open air
• The decision entered into force on 1 May 2024
• The new legislation does not apply to Italian Graubünden

Key Facts

• Effective date: May 1, 2024
• Canton concerned: Canton Ticino
• Italian region concerned: Italian Graubünden
• Reason for revocation: Improvement of weather conditions and reduction of fire danger
• Violation penalties: Up to 10,000 Swiss francs
• Expiry of revocation: 30 September 2024
• Maximum fire size: Maximum height 50 cm

The Ticino Council of State has lifted the ban on lighting open fires in forests, meadows and unprotected areas in the Canton of Ticino. The decision came into force on May 1, 2024, after months of restrictions related to summer fire risks. However, the new legislation does not apply to neighboring Italian Graubünden, where the ban remains in place at least until the next assessment by the local authorities.

The lifting of the ban was motivated by the improvement of weather conditions and the reduction of the fire danger, according to the Department of the Territory of the Canton of Ticino. The new regulation applies to all areas not classified as high risk zones, where the fire danger is still considered high. The cantonal authorities have specified that local permits may still impose additional restrictions in the event of adverse weather conditions.

History of the measure

The ban on outdoor fires had been introduced in 2023 following a particularly dry summer season and several arson and accidental fires that had mainly affected the Sopraceneri. The measure had created inconvenience especially among those who, in the winter and spring months, were used to spending Sundays outdoors lighting small bonfires for barbecues or heating drinks. The lifting of the ban had been anticipated by several Ticino municipalities as early as autumn 2023, but it was only with the beginning of spring 2024 that the Council of State made the decision official.

Differences with the Italian Graubünden

The situation remains unchanged in neighboring Italian Graubünden, where the ban on lighting fires outdoors is still in force. This difference creates many difficulties for cross-border commuters living in the border areas between Ticino and Graubünden, such as Brusio or Poschiavo. In these areas, Ticino residents can now light fires, while their Italian neighbors cannot do so. The Ticino cantonal authorities have pointed out that the Swiss legislation is more permissive than the Italian one, which maintains stricter restrictions even in the less critical months.

"The lifting of the ban responds to a technical assessment based on weather data and the level of soil moisture. However, each municipality may decide to maintain local restrictions if it deems it necessary." — Department of the Territory, Canton of Ticino

Impact on outdoor activities

The possibility of lighting fires outdoors is especially interesting for those who practice hiking, camping or simple Sunday barbecues in wooded areas. According to data from the Ticino Tourism Federation, the lifting of the ban should encourage tourist activities in the spring months, traditionally less frequented than in summer. However, the authorities reiterated that the legislation does not authorize the lighting of fires in protected areas or near sensitive infrastructure, such as power lines or fuel depots.

The updated rules also apply to fires made from wood harvested locally, but prohibit the use of gasoline or other chemical accelerants, which are considered too dangerous.

What Ticino law provides for

• Authorization: No prior authorization required for small fires in unprotected areas.
• Dimensions: Maximum height allowed for fire: 50 cm.
• Distance: At least 10 meters from buildings, roads, forests and cultivated areas.
• Surveillance: The fire must be constantly monitored and extinguished after use.
• Material: Chemical accelerators (petrol, alcohol, etc.) are prohibited.
• Period: Revocation valid until 30 September 2024, subject to further restrictions.

Penalties for violations Those who do not comply with the rules risk administrative penalties of up to 10,000 Swiss francs for arson or dangerous fires. In the event of an accidental fire, civil and criminal liability is borne by the person who lit the fire.

Comparison with Italian legislation

| Appearance | Ticino (Switzerland) | Graubünden Italian (Italy) | |----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Current ban | Revoked as of May 1, 2024 | Effective until further notice | | Authorization | None for small fires | Request for most municipalities | | Maximum dimensions | 50 cm | Variable (usually 30-40 cm) | | Minimum distance | 10 meters from buildings and woods | 50 meters in many municipalities | | Use of Accelerators | Prohibited | Prohibited in most cases | | Penalties | Up to 10,000 CHF | From 500 to 5,000 euros |

Implications for cross-border commuters

For cross-border commuters living in the border areas between Ticino and Italian Graubünden, the lifting of the ban in Ticino opens up new opportunities for recreation, but at the same time highlights a regulatory disparity between the two cantons. Those who live in Brusio, for example, can now light fires in their own cantonal territory, but cannot do so in the nearby Italian municipality of Tirano, located a few kilometers away.

This difference can generate confusion especially among those who work in Ticino but reside in Italy, or vice versa. The Ticino authorities have reassured that the checks will be carried out mainly during periods of maximum fire risk, but have also recalled that the responsibility falls entirely on the individual citizen.

Operational details

The lifting of the ban on lighting open-air fires in Ticino marks a significant change for residents and visitors to the canton’s wooded areas. However, for cross-border workers who regularly travel between Ticino and the Italian-speaking Graubünden, the new regulations introduce a series of practical and administrative complications that deserve close attention.

Before vs. after: what has changed for cross-border workers

Until 30 April 2024, lighting open-air fires in Ticino was prohibited, except in expressly authorised areas and under strict supervision. The lifting of the ban now allows people to resume traditional activities such as barbecues in the woods, warming themselves by a campfire, or simply enjoying the outdoors. However, for those living in areas bordering the Italian-speaking Graubünden, the situation is more complex. In Brusio and Poschiavo, for example, residents are permitted to light fires, while those living in nearby Tirano are still subject to Italy’s ban. This disparity can lead to paradoxical situations: a cross-border worker living in Brusio and working in Italy could light a fire in their own garden, but could not do so just a few hundred metres away in the town of residence.

💡 Key insight: The new rules apply based on the location where the fire is lit, not where the person resides or works. This means that even a cross-border worker subject to Italian law at home must comply with Ticino’s regulations when lighting a fire in Ticino.

Risks and responsibilities: what the law says

Under Ticino’s new regulations, the person who lights and manages the fire bears sole responsibility. In the event of an accidental or deliberate fire, cantonal authorities may hold the individual liable for any environmental or material damage. As previously mentioned, fines for serious violations can reach up to 10,000 Swiss francs (CHF).

For cross-border workers moving between the two cantons, it is essential to familiarise themselves with the rules of the municipality where the fire is lit, not just where they live or work. For example:

• If a fire is lit in Brusio (Ticino), Ticino’s regulations apply.
• If the same campfire is lit in nearby Tirano (Italian-speaking Graubünden), Italy’s still-active ban prohibits the action.

This scenario can create conflicts of jurisdiction between local authorities, particularly in cases where fires spread across cantonal borders. Ticino authorities have already announced that, in an emergency, they will intervene immediately to extinguish flames, but civil liability will remain with the person who lit the fire, regardless of nationality.

⚠️ Important: Even if a fire is lit in compliance with Ticino’s rules, cross-border workers must ensure it does not violate Italian regulations if the fire spreads or if they are in Italian territory.

Impact on tourism and recreational activities

The lifting of the ban could boost local tourism, especially in May and June, traditionally quieter months compared to summer. According to data from the Ticino Tourism Federation, wooded areas in both the Sopraceneri and Sottoceneri regions may see an increase in visitors, thanks to the ability to safely light fires.

However, cantonal authorities have emphasised that the new rules do not permit fires in protected areas, such as natural parks or forest reserves. Additionally, the use of flammable materials or large-scale fires is strictly prohibited, as these could pose a danger to the surrounding vegetation.

📊 Data point: The Ticino Tourism Federation estimates that the lifting of the ban could lead to a 15-20% increase in visits to wooded areas during the spring months, provided weather conditions remain favourable.

As stated by the Ticino cantonal authorities: 'While we encourage responsible enjoyment of our natural spaces, safety and respect for the environment remain our top priorities.'

For hikers and campers, the lifting of the ban comes as a relief, but the authorities have reiterated the need to follow basic rules:

1. Always check local weather conditions before lighting a fire. 2. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 metres from buildings, forests, and roads. 3. Never leave a fire unattended. 4. Fully extinguish all embers before leaving the site.

What happens in the event of an accidental fire

In the event of an accidental fire caused by improperly managed fires, the Ticino cantonal authorities have the right to demand compensation for damages from the person who lit the fire. This also applies to cross-border workers living in Italy but engaging in recreational activities in Ticino. Compensation procedures can be initiated directly by the Cantonale Forestale (Ticino Forestry Service) or local police forces.

According to data from Ticino’s Civil Protection, 12 forest fires were recorded in 2023 due to poorly managed fires, with estimated damages exceeding CHF 500,000. The lifting of the ban does not reduce the authorities’ vigilance, which will continue to monitor high-risk areas closely.

📊 Cultural differences and local customs In Ticino, lighting outdoor fires is a common practice, especially during holidays such as Swiss National Day (1 August) or spring hiking trips. In the Italian-speaking Graubünden, however, restrictions are stricter and often tied to stricter environmental regulations aimed at protecting historic wooded areas.

These cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings among cross-border workers, particularly those living near the border. For example, a cross-border worker who lights a fire in Brusio without realising it is prohibited in Tirano could face civil penalties from Italian authorities, in addition to Swiss penalties if the fire spreads across the border.

Tips for cross-border workers

To avoid unpleasant surprises, cross-border workers living or passing through border areas are advised to:

• Check local rules on outdoor fires with their municipality of residence.
• Monitor weather conditions before lighting any fire, using bulletins from MeteoSwiss or the Regional Agency for Environmental Protection (ARPA) in Lombardy for Italian areas.
• Use only locally collected wood and avoid chemical accelerants, which are banned in both cantons.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water handy to quickly douse any uncontrolled flames.
• Report any fires or dangerous behaviour to the relevant authorities using 118 (emergencies in Italy) or 117 (emergencies in Switzerland).

Future outlook

Ticino authorities have announced that the lifting of the ban will be reviewed monthly based on evolving weather conditions. If the risk of fire increases, the ban could be reintroduced even before the end of September 2024. For this reason, it is advisable to constantly monitor updates on the Ticino Department of Territory website or official Civil Protection channels.

💡 Key takeaways for cross-border workers

• Respect local fire regulations in both Switzerland and Italy to avoid fines.
• Always prioritise safety and environmental protection.
• Stay informed about changing rules to prevent accidents and legal consequences.

⚠️ Need help or have questions? Contact the Ticino Cantonale Forestale or your local Italian authorities for guidance on fire regulations in your area.

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Key points

The lifting of the ban on lighting fires outdoors in Ticino offers new opportunities for recreation, but requires a thorough understanding of the rules and careful management of leisure activities. For cross-border commuters who live or work in border areas, the legislation introduces additional complexities related to the differences between the laws of Ticino and those of the Italian Graubünden. Here's a step-by-step process for safely starting a fire and complying with regulations, as well as a checklist to avoid penalties.

Step 1: Check the local conditions Before lighting a fire, it is essential to check the weather conditions and the level of fire risk in your area. The Ticino authorities update the fire risk daily on the Dipartimento del territorio website. For cross-border commuters who are in the border areas with the Italian Graubünden, it is advisable to also consult the bulletins of the Italian Civil Protection or ARPA Lombardy.

Step 2: Choose the right location Not all places are suitable for starting a fire.

According to the new Ticino legislation, it is forbidden to light fires in: - Protected areas (natural parks, forest reserves). - Proximity to buildings, roads, power lines, or fuel depots. - Dry soils or woods, where the risk of flame spread is high. - Places where fire could pose a danger to public safety.

Ticino municipalities can impose additional local restrictions. For example, some municipalities may ban fires even in unprotected areas during periods of particular drought. To verify, you can contact your town hall or consult the website of the Department of the territory.

Step 3: Gather the right material The wood used must be dry and collected on site. It is forbidden to use: - Chemically treated timber. - Synthetic or flammable materials (plastic, paper, cardboard). - Gasoline, alcohol, or other chemical accelerants.

The embers must be completely extinguished before leaving the place. An effective method of extinguishing the fire is to cover it with soil and pour in plenty of water until the embers are completely cool.

Step 4: Light and supervise the fire Once lit, the fire must be constantly monitored and kept at a maximum height of 50 cm. It is forbidden to leave it unattended, even for short periods. The authorities recommend that: - Keep a minimum distance of 10 meters from buildings, roads and wooded areas. - Do not exceed the permitted dimensions (maximum height 50 cm, maximum diameter 1 meter). - Turn off the heat completely when finished using, making sure no embers remain lit.

Step 5: Turn off and clean After use, it is mandatory to turn off the fire completely and collect any residue. An effective method to check that the fire is out is: - Pour water over the embers until they no longer smoke. - Mix the embers with the soil to speed up cooling. - Make sure that the surrounding soil is not hot to the touch.

Leaving residues or embers burning can result in administrative penalties and, in the event of an accidental fire, civil and criminal liability.

Checklist for starting a fire in Ticino (2024)

| Step | Actions to be taken | Control | |--------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | 1. Check conditions | Check the fire risk bulletin on the website of the Department of the Territory. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No | | 2. Choose the location | Make sure the place isn't a protected area or a prone to propagation. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No | | 3. Gather the material| Use only dry, on-the-spot harvested wood. Avoid synthetic materials. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No | | 4. Light the Fire | Keep maximum height 50 cm and minimum distance 10 meters. Do not use accelerants. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No | | 5. Overwatch | Never leave the fire unattended. Turn off completely when finished. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No | | 6. Turn off and clean | Pour water over the embers, mix with soil and make sure no flames remain. | ✅ Yes / ❌ No |

What to do in case of fire If, despite precautions, a fire occurs: 1. Call for help immediately:

• In Ticino: 117 (Cantonal Police).
• In Italy (Graubünden): 118 (Fire Brigade). 2. Move people away from the risk area and mark the spot of the fire with a visible object. 3. Report your location to the authorities, specifying any landmarks (e.g. path, forest road). 4. Do not try to put out the fire yourself if you are not equipped or trained. Wait for help to arrive.

Differences between Ticino and Italian Graubünden: what to know before lighting a fire If you are a cross-border commuter who lives in the Italian Graubünden but works in Ticino, or vice versa, it is essential to know the rules of the municipality of residence, not just the one where the place of work is located. Here is a list of the most critical border areas and their regulations:

• Brusio (Ticino) vs Tirano (Italian Graubünden): Fires are allowed in Brusio, not in Tirano. - Poschiavo (Ticino) vs Tirano (Italian Graubünden): Same scenario. - Chiavenna (Italy) vs Chiasso (Ticino): In Ticino fireworks are allowed, but in Italy the ban remains in force.

To avoid penalties, it is advisable to avoid lighting fires near the border or, if in doubt, consult the local authorities.

Useful tools for cross-border commuters To better manage the regulation, you can use the following tools on our site: - Calcolatore del costo della vita a confine: Compare the differences between Ticino and Italian Graubünden. - Mappa dei valichi frontalieri: Find the main crossing points between the two cantons. - Guida alle normative locali: Updated information on Ticino municipal regulations.

Practical conclusions

The lifting of the ban on lighting fires outdoors in Ticino represents a positive change for those who love outdoor activities. However, for cross-border commuters moving between the two cantons, the legislation introduces new responsibilities and risks related to the differences between Swiss and Italian laws. The only way to avoid unpleasant surprises is to keep yourself informed, follow the rules and act prudently, especially near borders.

⚠️ Final Warning

The lifting of the ban is only valid until 30 September 2024 and could be lifted at any time in the event of an increased fire risk. Monitor official updates, and if in doubt, refrain from lighting fires until conditions are safer.

Source: ilgiornaledelticino.ch

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