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Barbecue ban in NRW: increasing fire risk brings new rules!
In Duisburg, from level 4 of the grassland fire index, there is a ban on grilling in public areas due to the threat of drought.
Barbecue ban in NRW: increasing fire risk brings new rules!
The barbecue season could end earlier than hoped for many Cologne residents this year. In Bochum, grilling in green spaces and parks has been banned since Wednesday due to the threat of fire. From Saturday, this ban could also be expanded to other cities and municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia, including Duisburg and Gelsenkirchen WDR reported.
The barbecue ban is intended to be a fire protection measure and is linked to the grassland fire index, an early warning system for assessing the risk of fire on grassland, which is calculated by the German Weather Service (DWD). This index is divided into five levels, with grilling being prohibited in Bochum from level 3 onwards. In other cities such as Duisburg and Gelsenkirchen, the ban only comes into force from level 4.
The impending danger of drought
The current situation is worrying: May 2025 is considered to be the driest spring in North Rhine-Westphalia since 1881. There was almost no rainfall, which means that the risk of wildfires increases significantly. The grassland fire index is currently at level 3 and could rise to level 4 in the coming days, which could lead to a nationwide barbecue ban. In addition to Bochum, cities such as Duisburg, Gelsenkirchen, Leverkusen and Moers are also drawing up their emergency clauses to close public barbecue areas as soon as the danger levels rise Ruhr24 reported.
For Cologne barbecue fans, the hope remains that they can stay in their own gardens. Homeowners are allowed to grill there as long as they show consideration for their neighbors. However, in apartment buildings, grilling on balconies is subject to house rules and rental agreements, which may impose greater restrictions.
Fines for violations
One thing is clear: Anyone who doesn't follow the rules will face severe fines. These vary depending on the municipality: While the barbecue party in Münster can be punished with 5 euros, in Dortmund it is 20 euros and in Cologne 25 euros. In Bonn you even have to pay 50 euros for violations, like this daily news informed. In the worst case, repeated violations can result in several thousand euros being due.
The type of grill also plays a role in the discussion about grilling. Charcoal grills are often banned in public spaces, while electric and gas grills are usually permitted. So if you're planning a barbecue party, you should contact the city council beforehand and, ideally, invite the neighbors to avoid possible complaints.
Summer has begun, but the joy of grilling could soon be dampened by the current weather situation. Compliance with the regulations will not only remain unanswered - for many, the barbecue ban could become a serious issue. So, grill smartly and pay attention to the risk of fire!