No, open burning in Finland is largely prohibited under the Environmental Protection Act (YSL 527/2014) and the Waste Act (646/2011), with exceptions strictly controlled by local authorities and regional environmental centers.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Finland
- Permit Requirements: Open burning of waste, including garden waste, requires prior approval from the local ympäristönsuojeluviranomainen (environmental protection authority) or kunta (municipality). Unauthorized burning may result in fines under the Waste Act.
- Seasonal Restrictions: Burning is typically banned during high-risk wildfire periods (May–September) in most regions, enforced by the Metsähallitus (Finnish Forest Administration) and local fire departments.
- Prohibited Materials: Burning household waste, plastics, treated wood, or agricultural residues is illegal. Only untreated wood, leaves, or branches may qualify for exceptions, subject to regional bylaws.
Local ELY-keskukset (Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment) and municipalities may impose additional conditions, including buffer zones and smoke dispersion limits. Violations can trigger inspections by Tukes (Safety and Chemicals Agency) or municipal authorities, with penalties escalating under the 2026 amendments to the Environmental Protection Act targeting air quality compliance. Always verify current guidelines with your regional ELY-keskus before proceeding.