Burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year is prohibited by law.

In the proposed Heritage Bill 2016, the periods for hedgecutting and burning of hill vegetation were to be extended by one month on a trial basis to make land management more practical. As of yet, this has not been changed.

For farmers in hill areas who need to control vegetation to comply with schemes but cannot do this by other means, controlled burning is an option.

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Controlled burning cannot be done at a whim and it takes careful planning and consideration.

With cool, mostly dry weather forecast, this represents a good opportunity for farmers to get burning done.

The Department has plenty of good information on its website for safe burning of vegetation.

By following the check list below, you will increase your chances of staying safe during burning:

  • Is a fire absolutely necessary?
  • Am I within the legally permitted period for controlled burning?
  • Am I within one mile of a woodland or forest?
  • Is my fire plan thoroughly prepared?
  • Am I certain that my property and my neighbour’s property will be safe?
  • Have I notified my neighbours and the owners of nearby plantations, An Garda Síochána, the local authority and the fire service regional control centre?
  • Have I sufficient help and equipment on standby to control the planned fire?
  • Am I sure that I have adequate means of communication with others should an emergency arise?
  • Have I considered the financial and insurance consequences of an uncontrolled fire?
  • If I light an uncontrolled fire, have I fully considered the penalties under the Department’s direct payment schemes, the possibility of facing prosecution fines of up to €50,000, up to two years in prison or both?