Full Breakdown
Cairngorms National Park Implements Campfire and Barbecue Ban to Mitigate Wildfire Risks
4/1/2026, 4:18:05 AM
New By-Law Enforced
A seasonal ban on campfires and barbecues has been enacted in the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK, to reduce the risk of wildfires. This by-law, approved by Scottish ministers, is effective from April 1 to September 30 each year, with violators facing fines of up to £500. The decision follows extensive public consultation, with 79% of 1,600 respondents supporting the measure. The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) emphasized the need for this ban due to the increasing frequency of wildfires exacerbated by climate change.
Background on Wildfire Incidents
The urgency for this ban stems from significant wildfire incidents in recent years, including what was described as the largest wildfire in UK history, which occurred around Carrbridge and Dava Moor. In 2022, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) responded to over 200 wildfires across Scotland, highlighting the growing threat posed by human activities, such as campfires and discarded materials that can ignite dry vegetation.
Enforcement and Community Engagement
To ensure compliance, the CNPA will deploy over 100 rangers this summer, a record number, alongside joint patrols with Police Scotland at key hotspots. The CNPA plans to promote the ban through roadside signs, leaflets, and social media campaigns under the slogan "Protect our National Park. No flame, no spark." This initiative aims to educate visitors about the risks associated with wildfires and the importance of responsible behavior in the park.
Official Statements
Sandy Bremner, convener of the CNPA, stated, “We want people to keep enjoying all that the national park offers but we also need everyone to help protect it. We know it only takes one rogue spark to start a wildfire and when there is so much to lose, we can’t take that risk.” Area Commander Robert Lennox of the SFRS echoed these concerns, noting, “Wildfires pose a real risk to people, properties and nature. Extreme weather events are becoming more common across Scotland, and we know that communities in the Cairngorms have felt this acutely in recent years.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the majority supports the by-law, some critics argue that the focus should also include addressing the underlying causes of wildfires, such as land management practices and the need for more comprehensive climate adaptation strategies. The CNPA has acknowledged that education and prevention will remain priorities alongside enforcement.
What's Next
The CNPA is committed to implementing an Integrated Wildfire Management Plan, which includes additional measures such as fire ponds and estate fire plans. The park authority encourages the public to report any fires immediately and to adhere to the new regulations to help protect the natural environment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want people to keep enjoying all that the national park offers but we also need everyone to help protect it.” — Sandy Bremner, Convener, Cairngorms National Park Authority
- “Wildfires pose a real risk to people, properties and nature.” — Robert Lennox, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
- “This by-law is an important new tool to tackle wildfire risk and safeguard the national park.” — Robert Lennox, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
