Cairngorms fire byelaw cuts recorded campfires and barbecues by 70%
Rangers in the Cairngorms National Park recorded 100 active fires during the first season of its seasonal fire byelaw, compared with 312 in 2025 and 320 in 2024, the Park Authority has reported.
The reduction of around 70% follows the introduction of restrictions on campfires and barbecues from 1 April to 30 September each year. The authority said education and prevention remained its priority, with enforcement used as a last resort.
More ranger patrols and public awareness
More than 100 permanent, seasonal, volunteer, trainee and partner service rangers supported the first season. Park Authority rangers carried out 1,400 patrols, 277 more than the previous year, alongside joint weekend patrols with Police Scotland in Glenmore and Deeside.
Two parties were reported to the Procurator Fiscal after failing to comply. A communications campaign reached more than 2.1 million people, while pre- and post-campaign YouGov surveys recorded increased awareness among residents and visitors.
Sandy Bremner, Convener at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, thanked visitors who used gas stoves or brought picnics instead of lighting fires or barbecues.
“We are absolutely determined to build on the success of the byelaw and work with our partners to drive down the fire risk ever further,” he said.
Wildfire risk remains
The authority stressed that this summer’s wildfire at Glenmore and Strath Nethy, whose cause remains unknown, demonstrated the continuing threat to landscapes, wildlife and local communities.
Chief Executive Grant Moir thanked rangers, local businesses and partners for helping explain the restrictions. He also recognised the emergency services, land managers and community members involved in responding to the wildfire.
The byelaw forms part of the authority’s wider Integrated Wildfire Management Plan. Preparations for the next season include permanent road signage, reaching visitors before they arrive and further work with young people. The seasonal restrictions return on 1 April 2027.
For visitor information and local guidance, visit the Cairngorms National Park Authority.
