Is Open Burning Legal in Romania After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

No, open burning in Romania is prohibited under Law 278/2013 and Government Decision 1218/2014, with exceptions strictly limited to agricultural waste under 50 kg/day, subject to prior approval from the local Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Violations incur fines up to RON 20,000 (≈€4,000) and may trigger criminal liability under the 2026 amendments to the Environmental Code.

Key Regulations for Open Burning in Romania

  • Permit Requirement: Agricultural or forestry waste burning demands a prior permit from the county-level EPA (Agenția pentru Protecția Mediului), verifying compliance with air quality standards and proximity to Natura 2000 sites.
  • Seasonal Bans: Open burning is banned during high-risk wildfire periods (March–October in most regions), enforced by the National Forestry Authority (Romsilva) and local authorities.
  • Waste Classification: Only untreated plant residues (e.g., pruning, stubble) may be burned; prohibited materials include plastics, treated wood, or municipal waste, per Order 756/2016 of the Environment Ministry.