The Prefect of Gironde, Sophie BROCAS, has decided to raise the forest fire prevention vigilance level in the department to ORANGE (level 3 out of 5), effective this Thursday, September 24, 2026, until further notice. This decision follows the predicted weather conditions for the coming days.
Consequently, several restrictions apply. In exposed areas of predominantly forest communes, the following are now prohibited: any festive, sporting, or cultural event between 2:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Outside these hours, events may proceed with enhanced surveillance and unless prohibited by municipal order. It is also forbidden to incinerate dry or pest-infested vegetation, conduct controlled burns, or engage in carbonization activities, to practice bivouacking or isolated camping in exposed areas, and to use thermal or electric motors between 2:00 PM and 10:00 PM, except for specific exceptions outlined in the decree.
Free human presence is prohibited from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM in exposed areas of forest communes. Exceptions include access to developed leisure sites, beaches, and water sports bases, as well as circulation on the EuroVelo 1 and 3 routes, and cycle paths leading to beaches and seaside resorts. Access for residents, property owners, and certain professionals and public services working in forest areas is also permitted under specific conditions.
Throughout the entire Gironde department, it is forbidden to use thermal brush-cutting tools, burn green waste in the open air, use flying lanterns, and set off private fireworks. Public fireworks are also prohibited, with an exception for those launched over water or from the beach towards the sea, outside of exposed forest commune areas.
Free and supervised human presence remains prohibited within previously burned sectors, except for individuals with a legitimate interest, such as owners, forest managers, agricultural operators, and public service agents.
Sophie BROCAS urges everyone to maintain high vigilance and strictly adhere to these preventive measures to ensure everyone's safety and protect natural spaces.
