Fire season in Catalunya

Every year, from 15 March to 15 October, the Generalitat applies special fire prevention measures throughout Catalunya. These restrictions apply in forests and nearby woodland areas, including many campsites, countryside properties, and rural accommodation.

Rules are in place for a reason. Dry vegetation, heat, and strong wind, especially the tramuntana in northern Catalunya, can cause fires to spread very quickly during summer.

Although rainfall improved conditions across Catalunya in early 2026 after several difficult drought years, authorities continue to warn that dead vegetation and dry forest areas still present a significant fire risk.

Activities that may require authorisation

Activities involving flames, sparks, or pyrotechnics may need authorisation during the fire season. These can include:

• Barbecues and bonfires

• Burning garden or agricultural waste

• Fireworks and firecrackers

• Outdoor cooking with open flames

• Recreational fires and campfires

Since 2025, Catalunya has used the digital 9PERFOC platform to manage activities with fire risk near forest areas. The system allows authorities to regulate permissions, implement restrictions, and issue warnings if conditions suddenly change.

Temporary bans or suspensions may also be introduced during periods of very high fire risk.

Are barbecues allowed?

In many cases, yes, but only under specific conditions.

Authorised fixed barbecues made from brick or metal, often with spark arresters or chimney protection, may still be permitted in campsites, picnic areas or private gardens away from vegetation.

Portable or disposable barbecues are far more restricted during summer, particularly near forests or dry grassland.

Gas and electric barbecues are generally the safest option for terraces and private outdoor spaces, though caution is still advised during hot or windy weather.

If you are staying at a campsite, rural accommodation or holiday property, always check local rules before using outdoor cooking equipment.

Fireworks and Sant Joan

During Sant Joan and other summer festivals, many towns organise official fireworks and bonfire celebrations. Private fireworks, sky lanterns or pyrotechnics near forests or dry vegetation remain heavily restricted.

The use of rockets, firecrackers and fireworks is prohibited in forest areas, farmland and urban zones located within 500 metres of woodland.

The Pla Alfa fire risk map

One of the most useful tools during summer is the Pla Alfa fire risk map, managed by the Agents Rurals.

The map is updated daily and shows the current wildfire danger level for each municipality across Catalunya, using a five-level scale from low to extreme risk.

Before organising outdoor activities in natural areas, lighting a barbecue or visiting forest zones, it’s always worth checking the current Pla Alfa level first.

A few important precautions

Even when activities are permitted, basic precautions still matter:

• Never throw cigarette ends from cars or walking trails

• Park responsibly without blocking emergency access roads

• Avoid leaving rubbish or glass in natural areas

• Keep gardens and dry vegetation maintained around rural homes

• Keep water nearby when cooking outdoors

• Never leave flames unattended during windy conditions

Emergency access routes through forest areas must always remain clear.

In case of emergency

If you see smoke, fire or suspicious activity near forest areas, call 112 immediately and follow instructions from local authorities or emergency services.

Wildfires can spread rapidly during summer conditions on La Costa Brava, particularly during periods of heat and strong wind.

Respecting the landscape

Outdoor cooking and summer gatherings are part of life on La Costa Brava. But protecting forests and natural areas is part of living here too.

Before lighting a barbecue or organising an outdoor fire this summer, always check local restrictions and the current Pla Alfa fire risk level first.