It is strictly regulated.
Open burning in Spain is prohibited nationwide under Royal Decree 1071/2015, which transposes EU ambient air quality directives, with exceptions granted only under stringent regional and municipal permits. The 2023–2026 National Air Quality Plan tightens enforcement, particularly in areas exceeding PM10 or PM2.5 thresholds, where local authorities (e.g., Comunidades Autónomas and Ayuntamientos) may impose moratoriums. Violations trigger fines up to €300,000 under Law 22/2011 on waste and contaminated soils, with liability extending to landowners and operators.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Spain
- Regional Permits Required: All open burning—including agricultural stubble, forest debris, or municipal waste—requires prior authorization from the Consejería de Medio Ambiente of the relevant Comunidad Autónoma. Permits hinge on seasonal air quality data and fire risk indices (e.g., Índice de Peligro de Incendios Forestales).
- Prohibited Materials: Burning plastics, treated wood, rubber, or household waste is illegal under Royal Decree 653/2003 and regional waste laws. Only untreated plant matter (e.g., pruned branches) may qualify for exceptions, subject to size and moisture content limits.
- Seasonal and Temporal Restrictions: Burning is typically banned during high-risk periods (June–September in most regions) and limited to daylight hours. The 2024 Plan Estatal de Protección Civil contra Incendios Forestales mandates real-time monitoring via satellite and ground sensors to detect non-compliant burns.