Fire Prevention Regulations in Northern Cyprus: dates, prohibitions, fines, and phone numbers

In Northern Cyprus, from May 1 to October 31, a seasonal fire prevention regime is in effect: lighting fires outdoors (including barbecues, bonfires, and burning garbage) is prohibited. Violations may result in fines of up to 10 minimum wages and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years, and for fires larger than 1 hectare — up to 100 minimum wages and/or up to 15 years in prison. If you notice fire or smoke, call: 199, 155, 177, 188.

• When the fire prevention regime is in effect
• What is prohibited
• Liability and fines
• Where to call if you see smoke or fire
• You may also be interested in
• Frequently asked questions

When the fire prevention regime is in effect

From May 1 to October 31, a special fire prevention regime is in force in Northern Cyprus. During this period, restrictions on open flames are applied particularly strictly due to the high risk of wildfires.

What is prohibited

During the fire prevention season, lighting any fires and using open flames outdoors for any purpose is prohibited — including cooking on a barbecue and burning garbage.

Liability and fines

Violators may be fined up to 10 minimum wages or sentenced to imprisonment for up to 5 years. Those responsible for fires larger than 1 hectare may be fined up to 100 minimum wages or face up to 15 years in prison.

Where to call if you see smoke or fire

All signs of fire or smoke should be reported immediately to the emergency services:

• 199 — fire department
• 155 — police
• 177 — forest fire service
• 188 — power grid emergency service

How to do it

1. Assess the situation from a safe distance: if there is smoke/fire, do not approach and do not attempt to extinguish it without proper training.
2. Call the appropriate number: 199 (fire department) and/or 177 (forest fire service), and if necessary 155 (police), 188 (power emergency service).
3. Provide landmarks: the area, nearest settlement, visible landmarks (road, hotel, shop), what exactly is burning, and how quickly it is spreading.

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Frequently asked questions

On what dates is the fire prevention regime in effect in Northern Cyprus?

From May 1 to October 31.

Can I barbecue or use a grill during this period?

During the fire prevention regime, lighting fires is prohibited, including cooking on open flames.

What are the penalties for violating the ban?

Fines of up to 10 minimum wages and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years are possible. If the fire covers more than 1 hectare, penalties may be stricter: up to 100 minimum wages and/or up to 15 years in prison.

Where to call if you see smoke or fire?

199 — fire department, 155 — police, 177 — forest fire service, 188 — power grid emergency service.