Lithuania tightens plant burning rules from May

Stricter regulations on burning plant waste take effect in Lithuania from May 1, the Environment Ministry announced late Thursday.

The updated rules expand the ban on burning collected plants or their parts to cover not only cities and towns but also resorts, recreational areas, and amateur garden associations outside urban boundaries. Municipalities will retain flexibility to set their own conditions for burning in villages and homesteads.

A limited exemption allows small-scale burning of dried branches or stems—up to 1 cubic meter—in towns and garden plots, provided local authorities have not imposed stricter limits. The same exemption applies in rural areas unless municipalities opt for alternative restrictions.

The regulations do not apply to solid biofuel produced from plants, provided it meets fire safety standards and remains untreated with chemicals. Residents may prepare and use such biofuel regardless of location, the ministry clarified.

Organized public events, coordinated with local governments, may still include burning plant-based installations like reed sculptures, symbolic bonfires, or traditional Užgavėnės effigies. Authorities may also designate recreational fire pits for burning dried plant material.

The changes aim to reduce air pollution and protect public health, according to the ministry.