Recreational fire byelaw - the story so far

This document contains details on the process of introducing a recreational fire byelaw in the Cairngorms National Park. An initial public consultation in 2024 received significant support for a byelaw, leading the Park Authority board to agree to a seasonal fire management byelaw, prohibiting fires and barbecues from 1 April to 30 September each year. Following a second consultation on the byelaw's specific wording, which incorporated feedback from residents, visitors, and emergency services, the refined proposal was approved by Marie Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, on 25 September 2025. In preparation for its enforcement, the Park Authority and its partners are implementing measures such as staff training, a wildfire communications campaign, installing signs at key locations, and coordinating with various organisations to ensure effective management and public awareness, forming part of a broader wildfire mitigation strategy that includes the UK's first Integrated Wildfire Management Plan.