Uruguay implements national ban on outdoor fires

Uruguay has enacted Decree No. 245/025, prohibiting all outdoor fires and burning activities across the national territory. The measure is effective from November 1 and will remain in place until April 30, 2027, to mitigate the risk of forest and field fires during high-danger months.

The National Emergency System (Sinae) noted that during the 2025-2026 season, the National Fire Department responded to 1,990 interventions involving forest and field fires, affecting 8,585 hectares. Authorities emphasized that over 90% of such fires are caused by human negligence or imprudence.

Specific exceptions to the ban include: • Cooking food using barbecues, grills, or similar purpose-built installations. • Use in designated areas within organized campsites, vacation colonies, and clubs. • Fires on private property, provided they are contained within a clean circular area of at least five meters in diameter with a protective border of stones, sand, or earth.

All permitted fires must be continuously monitored and equipped with means for complete extinguishment. Non-compliance may result in administrative sanctions, fines, and potential criminal liability.