Quito sanctioned 133 people for open-air burning between 2025 and 2026

Quito's Metropolitan Control Agency (AMC) has penalized 133 individuals for engaging in open-air burning of trash, brush, and vegetation in the city between 2025 and mid-August 2026. These illegal activities are a major concern due to their potential to spark forest fires and worsen air quality.

During 2025, the AMC issued fines totaling $20,910 to 89 individuals. In 2026, 44 people have been fined $10,604 so far. Municipal regulations classify these actions as infractions, with penalties determined by the severity of each case. The Los Chillos and Tumbaco districts recorded the highest number of offenders in 2025, while Tumbaco and La Delicia have seen the most sanctions in 2026.

From June 1 to August 13, 2026, the AMC initiated 137 proceedings, notifying individuals of their infractions. The process allows for the right to defense, giving citizens a legal period to present evidence, submit explanations, or rectify their conduct. If the actions cannot be justified, the process continues toward a resolution, which may include fines or precautionary measures.

Open-air burning is considered a serious infraction by the AMC, as uncontrolled incineration of waste and vegetation is a primary cause of forest fires, especially during the dry season. Municipal ordinances also prohibit these burns due to their contribution to air pollution and increased fire risk. Fines are tiered, with general open-air burning incurring a penalty equivalent to 50% of a Unified Basic Salary (SBU), approximately $241 USD. More severe infractions, such as causing forest fires, can result in fines ranging from $2,410 to $36,150 USD.