This Act aims to protect the environment, human health, life and property by preventing pollution and damage caused by grass burning, wildfires and outdoor use of fire. It prohibits lighting fires outdoors where they may endanger people, vegetation, wildlife, buildings or the environment, requires extreme caution with equipment capable of causing ignition, and bans open burning of waste. Grass burning is generally prohibited but may be authorised for agricultural purposes under a written permit and within specified seasonal limits, while larger bonfires also require permits and relevant approvals. The Act allows municipalities and authorities to impose further restrictions based on weather, air quality, nearby activities or environmental risks, establishes supervisory responsibilities for public authorities and fire services, and provides for civil liability, recovery of firefighting costs, fines and imprisonment of up to two years for certain violations.
Islandia · 2015-07-07