Oxford’s local authority has revealed that all fires, fireworks and disposable barbecues will be prohibited across parks and open spaces throughout the city for a duration of three years.
The measure was formalised on Tuesday, September 1, when Oxford City Council enacted a Public Spaces Protection Order aimed at minimising the likelihood of wildfires occurring within the city’s parks and green areas.
The decision encompasses 41 parks and public spaces, selected according to visitor numbers, ignition hazards and the potential consequences for each location and surrounding environment.
The restriction takes effect from September 4 and will remain in place for three years.
Engaging in activities such as barbecue cooking, open-fire burning, lantern release and firework displays will constitute an offence, with penalties ranging from a £100 immediate fine to a £1,000 penalty issued through court proceedings.
Firefighters from Oxfordshire responded to a significant wildfire at Dunwich Heath close to Leiston in Suffolk during the summer months.
A document prepared by council officers supporting the order’s implementation noted that recent heatwaves experienced across the United Kingdom have created drought conditions and elevated wildfire risks, with extensive water usage restrictions imposed across much of the nation.
The assessment suggested that summer temperatures could potentially rise further in subsequent years.
The report concluded that implementing a Public Spaces Protection Order was necessary to mitigate wildfire dangers in Oxford’s parks and green spaces.
A substantial fire occurred at Bradwell near Burford in 2025.
A consultation regarding potential changes to parks and open spaces regulations took place between February and April 2024, addressing the prohibition of fire-lighting, barbecues, fireworks, lanterns and other flame-related activities.
According to the officers’ report, consultation responses indicated general support for introducing such a regulation.
Councillor Linda Smith, who serves as Sheriff of Oxford, stated that as the city’s Sheriff she welcomed this definitive local response, endorsed by central Government, to prohibit fires, barbecues and fireworks at locations throughout Oxford to decrease fire hazards at some of the most cherished green spaces, with Port Meadow specifically mentioned.
The ban was confirmed to take effect on Friday.
The council acted promptly to introduce the Public Space Protection Order given the prevailing drought conditions and the strain on local Fire and Rescue Services.
Wildfires present genuine dangers to human life, property and the natural environment, and Councillor Smith expressed her view that the order would serve as a deterrent while encouraging safe use of Oxford’s parks and nature reserves.
Individuals disregarding the prohibition face penalties of £100 on-the-spot or up to £1,000 if the matter reaches court.
The urgent implementation followed correspondence from the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government addressed to all local authority leaders and chief executives requesting cooperation in minimising wildfire risks during the current year.
An exceptionally warm and dry summer resulted in a dramatic increase in fire service deployments nationally, with destructive wildfires impacting agricultural land and fields across Oxfordshire, affecting locations ranging from farms and school grounds to landfill sites and woodland areas.