Lighting a bonfire in a public place is illegal. A public place is anywhere other than your own back garden, and includes streets, parks, playgrounds and grassland.

You can support the fire service by reporting any fly-tipped materials on public land and in open spaces for removal - before they have a chance to be set on fire. 

Deliberate fires on public land are different from orgainsed bonfires. They;

• can quickly and easily spread, especially if lit too close to nearby buildings, trees, fences, etc.
• are often made from rubbish, so may contain plastics, rubber or painted materials that produce toxic fumes when lit.
• can cause smoke to drift across the road and become a danger to traffic.
• will prevent the fire service from attending to other emergencies - putting lives at risk.

 Those caught building dangerous bonfires could face;

•  a fixed penalty notice or on the spot fine.
•  an acceptable behaviour contract issued by the Fire Service, Police, Community Safety Team and Housing Provider.
•  a tenancy warning from their landlord, if tenancy conditions are breached.
•  criminal prosecution for damage.

Tell Us!

Report illegal bonfires & fly-tipping on public land for removal before they have chance to cause damage, by calling Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service between 10am and 4pm on 0800 731 5958

Don't let others ruin your neighbourhood, tell the Police about property being damaged, misuse of fireworks and anti-social behaviour by ringing 101, or @MerPolCC - Twitter and Merseyside Police  CC - Facebook.

You may also want to report the issues to your registered housing provider, who will take action against those who may be breaching their tenancy conditions.