Hungary Imposes Strict Fire Bans Amid Rising Forest Fire Risks: Fines Up To 3 Million Forints For Violations

BUDAPEST, Hungary – As dry conditions persist and the risk of forest fires escalates, Hungarian authorities are intensifying efforts to enforce fire bans. REFRESHER Magyarország's 'Dr. Suri' series recently highlighted the critical importance of adhering to these regulations, noting that a significant majority of forest fires in Hungary are attributed to human negligence. According to the Ministry of Interior's National Directorate General for Disaster Management (BM OKF), daily updates are now provided on areas where fire bans are in effect. These prohibitions extend to lighting fires in forests, woodlands, and within a 200-meter radius of such areas, including along public roads and railways. The burning of stubble and weeds is also strictly forbidden. Violators face substantial fines, with penalties ranging from 10,000 to 1,000,000 Hungarian Forints. In cases where firefighter assistance is required to extinguish a blaze, the fine can increase significantly, potentially reaching up to 3,000,000 Forints. The public is urged to consult official sources daily to ascertain current fire ban statuses before engaging in any outdoor burning activities.