Entry into Edirne forests banned due to fire risk

Authorities in Edirne, Turkey, have implemented a ban on entry into forest areas within the province, effective from June 20 to October 15, 2026. The decision was announced by the Edirne Governorship.

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Due to the reasons stated, a decision has been taken to ban entry into forest areas in our province between June 20, 2026, and October 15, 2026, in accordance with Article 74 of Law No. 6831 on Forests and Articles 9 and 66 of Law No. 5442 on Provincial Administration.

The measure is a preventative step against forest fires, cited as a risk due to rising summer temperatures, increased human and vehicle movement in forested areas, and potential negligent actions. The ban is enacted under articles of the Forest Law and Provincial Administration Law.

While access to forests is restricted, the Governorship clarified that activities such as picnicking and walking in designated forest parks and nature parks remain permissible. However, lighting fires, including barbecues, using gas stoves, camping, or smoking hookahs in forest areas outside these parks is strictly forbidden.

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Picnicking, sports, walking, etc. activities are free in forest parks and nature parks within the borders of Edirne province. However, making barbecue, using gas stoves, camping, and smoking hookahs and lighting any kind of fire in forest areas outside these areas are strictly prohibited.

Furthermore, the burning of stubble, garden waste, olive groves, or fields, even in villages and neighborhoods adjacent to or within forests, is prohibited. This applies to any burning of trees, branches, or vegetation, as outlined by specific articles of the Forest Law.

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Burning of stubble, garden waste, olive groves and fields, and burning of trees, branches and all kinds of vegetation for reasons such as cleaning, is prohibited in villages and neighborhoods within, adjacent to, or not related to forests, in accordance with articles 31 and 32 of the Forest Law.