Quito sanctions 191 people for open-air burning

The Municipality of Quito has issued sanctions against 191 individuals for conducting open-air burning between June 1 and September 7, 2026, during the dry season. Led by the Agencia Metropolitana de Control (AMC), these measures aim to prevent forest fires.

In addition to administrative sanctions, seven complaints have been filed with the Fiscalía, and one individual is currently under preventive prison. Fines vary based on the severity of the infraction. While general open-air burning is considered a second-class contravention with a fine of approximately 241 USD, more serious violations can lead to much higher penalties. Specifically, causing forest fires can result in fines ranging from 2,410 to 36,150 USD.

Tumbaco recorded the highest number of sanctions with 47 cases, followed by Los Chillos with 43 and La Delicia with 38.