Oxford City Council has broadened the scope of its Public Space Protection Order to encompass additional locations, implementing stricter controls on outdoor fires, barbecues, and sky lanterns amid growing concerns about wildfire risks.
The council’s decision comes in response to prolonged dry conditions experienced across the region and several significant wildfire incidents reported throughout the country in recent weeks.
National authorities had already taken preparatory measures, including prohibiting the sale of single-use barbecues and urging councils to implement supplementary safety provisions where appropriate.
Councillor Anna Railton, who serves as cabinet member for planning and zero carbon Oxford, addressed the rationale behind the expanded protections.
The recent spate of uncontrolled fires causing extensive damage to residential properties and fragile natural environments has prompted widespread concern among local communities nationwide.
Oxford’s abundance of attractive parks and open areas within the urban centre presents a particular challenge, as the presence of vegetation increases the potential for flames to reach nearby houses and other structures.
The revised order grants enforcement personnel the authority to issue fixed penalty notices carrying a £100 charge to any individual found using barbecues, starting fires, releasing Chinese lanterns, or setting off unapproved fireworks within the specified zones.
Should recipients neglect to pay the penalty, or should incidents result in substantial destruction, the matter may proceed to court where fines can reach £1,000 alongside additional legal expenses.
Railton indicated that formal enforcement would be pursued only when other approaches prove insufficient.
The council is calling on residents to maintain awareness during periods of low rainfall and to contact emergency services without delay upon observing any indication of fire.