When going outdoors, many people ask: Is it possible to make a fire on the river bank? without the risk of getting a fine or causing a fire? The answer depends on the time of year, region, type of body of water, and even the purpose of your stay near the water. In some cases this is permitted in compliance with strict rules, in others it is strictly prohibited under threat of administrative liability.

In this article we will look at current for 2026 regulations that regulate the lighting of fire on river banks: from Government Decrees No. 1479 (fire regulations) to regional restrictions. We will pay special attention exceptions for fishermen and tourists in remote areas, where fires may be permitted subject to strict safety conditions.

You will also find out what fines are threatened for violating the rules (from 2 to 5 thousand rubles for individuals), how to properly equip a fireplace so as not to harm the river ecosystem, and what alternatives to open fire exist for cooking outdoors.

Legislative framework: what does the state say?

The main document regulating the lighting of fires in Russia is Government Decree No. 1479 of 2021 (as amended in 2026) “On approval of the Fire Safety Rules.” According to him, It is forbidden to light a fire:

  • 🔥 In the territories where it is valid special fire regime (announced by regional authorities during dry periods).
  • 🌲 In coniferous forests and peat bogs (even if the river bank passes through such a forest).
  • 🏕️ Closer than in 50 meters from coniferous trees, young growth or dead wood.
  • 🚫 In places where prohibitory signs hang (for example, “Campfires are prohibited”).

However there is exceptions:

  1. Bonfire is allowed on sandy or pebble river banks, if they are not surrounded by forest.
  2. B specially equipped places (barbecue areas, campsites with permits).
  3. For cooking in survival conditions (for example, for fishermen or tourists in the taiga), but with mandatory extinguishing.

Important: regional authorities may tighten the rules. For example, in Moscow region from May to October, fires are prohibited even on sandy beaches, and in Siberia allowed only in metal containers. Check the website for current restrictions MES.RF or local administration.

📊 Where do you usually make a fire outdoors?
On the river bank
In a clearing in the forest
In a designated parking lot
I don't cheat at all

Even during fire restrictions, there are situations when you can start a fire on the shore legally. Let's look at them in detail:

  1. Fishing in remote areas

    If you are on the river bank far from populated areas (more than 5 km) and use a fire for cooking or heating, this is permitted subject to the following conditions:

    • 🔹 There must be a fire pit surrounded by a mineral strip (sand, pebbles) width not less 0.5 m.
    • 🔹 Must be nearby water or land reserve for stewing (at least 10 liters).
    • 🔹 After use, the fire should be completely extinguished (ash is cold to the touch).
  • Equipped campsites and recreation centers

    On licensed tourist parking lots (for example, in national parks) it is often allowed to light a fire in barbecue areas or metal barrels. Check the rules with the administration.

  • Winter period

    C December 1 to March 15 (in most regions) restrictions are lifted, but only if the river bank not covered with dry grass and is not surrounded by coniferous forest.

    • Attention! Even in permitted cases it's impossible:

    ⚠️ Use for ignition gasoline, kerosene or other flammable liquids - this is fraught with an explosion and a fine of up to 4,000 rubles.

    Clear the area of dry grass and debris|

    Remove turf or make a sandy base|

    Prepare water or a shovel for extinguishing |

    Check for prohibition signs|

    Make sure there are no coniferous trees nearby -->

    Fines for violation: how much will you have to pay?

    The amount of the fine depends on severity of the violation and region. In 2026, the following tariffs are in effect (according to Article 20.4 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation):

    Type of violation Fine for individuals (₽) Fine for officials (₽) Additional measures
    Making a fire in a prohibited place (without consequences) 2 000 – 3 000 10 000 – 15 000 Warning
    Bonfire in a coniferous forest or on a peat bog 3 000 – 4 000 20 000 – 30 000 Equipment confiscation
    Fire due to an unextinguished fire (damage caused) 5 000 – 10 000 50 000 – 100 000 Criminal liability (Article 261 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation)
    Violation during the special fire regime 4 000 – 5 000 30 000 – 50 000 Ban on visiting the forest for up to 1 year

    In some regions (for example, Krasnodar region, Crimea) fines are higher by 30–50% due to high fire danger. If your fire starts a fire and causes damage to the forest or property, the matter may come to criminal liability (up to 3 years of imprisonment under Article 261 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation).

    How to avoid a fine? Always carry with you:

    • 📄 Document confirming the purpose of stay (for example, fishing ticket or a camping trip).
    • 📱 Photo/video extinguished fire (in case of inspection by an inspector).
    • 💧 Extinguishing media (water, fire extinguisher or shovel).
    💡

    If you are stopped by an inspector, politely ask to see your ID and refer to clause 77 of the Fire Regulations (permission for bonfires for cooking in remote areas).

    How to properly make a fire on the river bank: step-by-step instructions

    Once you have verified that starting a fire is permitted, follow security algorithm:

    1. Selecting a location

      The best option is sandy or pebbly coast distant from:

      • 🌳 Trees and shrubs (at least 10 m).
      • 🏠 Residential buildings and buildings (at least 50 m).
      • 🚣 Boats and watercraft (sparks may cause a fire).
    How to check the wind direction?

    Throw in a handful of sand or grass - if the wind is blowing towards the woods or dry grass, move the fire pit.

  • Preparing the fire pit

    Remove the top layer of turf (if the bank is grassy) or make sand base thick 5–10 cm. Outline the boundaries of the fire with stones or line it with bricks.

  • Ignition

    Use dry firewood (no thicker 5 cm in diameter) and prohibited:

    • 🔥 Water the firewood with gasoline or alcohol.
    • 🌿 Burn garbage, plastic or tires.
    • 🍂 Place dry leaves or pine needles.
    • Control and extinguishing

      Don't leave the fire unattended! For stewing:

      1. Level the coals with a shovel.
      2. Fill with water (the steam should stop coming out).
      3. Stir the ash and check with your hand - it should be cold.

    Attention! If you make a fire on ice in winter:

    ⚠️ Ice thickness must be at least 15 cm, and be sure to lay it under the fire layer of sand or snow thick 10 cmso as not to burn the ice.

    Alternatives to a fire: how to stay warm and cook without risk

    If starting a fire is prohibited, use safe alternatives:

    • 🔥 Gas burner (for example, Campingaz Bleuet or Kovea Supalite) - compact and allowed everywhere except nature reserves.
    • 🔥 Tourist stove (type BioLite CampStove) - works on wood, but with a closed combustion chamber.
    • 🔥 Dry alcohol or gel fuel (for example, Esbit) - does not produce sparks or smoke.
    • 🔥 Thermos with hot food - if the goal is only a snack, and not romance by the fire.

    Advantages of alternatives:

    1. ✅ No risk of fire.
    2. ✅ Does not require searching for firewood.
    3. ✅ Allowed even during periods of special fire regulations.

    Cons: some devices (for example, gas burners) prohibited on airplanes, so they cannot be taken in hand luggage. Check transportation rules with your airline.

    💡

    Even if you use a gas burner, stay away from dry grass and coniferous trees - a spark from a kerosene stove can cause a fire.

    Common mistakes: what not to do?

    Even experienced tourists sometimes break the rules without knowing it. Let's consider top 5 mistakesthat lead to fines or fires:

    1. Bonfire on an old fire pit

      Many people think that if there is already a burnt place on the shore, then they can light a fire there. This is not true! Old fire pits are often surrounded smoldering rootswhich may ignite.

    2. Using resinous firewood

      Spruce, pine or birch with resin produce a lot of sparks that scatter into 10–15 m. Better to use aspen, alder or dry linden branches.

    3. Leaving the fire "in care"

      Walk away from a burning fire even for 5 minutes it is impossible. Wind can fan the flames or transfer sparks to dry grass.

    4. Extinguishing with sand without water

      Sand does not extinguish the coals, but only isolates them. Under a layer of sand, smoldering may continue day! Always fill the fire with water.

    5. Bonfire on floating islands

      On some rivers (for example, in Volga deltas) meet floating peat islands. It is strictly forbidden to light a fire on them - they can catch fire entirely!

    If you witness a violation (for example, someone lit a fire in a coniferous forest), report it:

    • 📞 By phone 112 (unified rescue service).
    • 📱 Via the application "Forest watch" (available for iOS and Android).
    • 🌐 On the website forest.rf in the “Report Abuse” section.

    Regional features: where are the rules stricter?

    In some regions of Russia there are additional restrictions. Let's look at the strictest ones:

    Region Features of the rules Fine for a fire (₽)
    Moscow and Moscow region Bonfires are prohibited May 1 to October 15 even on sandy beaches. 5 000
    Krasnodar region Allowed only in metal barbecues on equipped beaches. 4 000 – 7 000
    Republic of Crimea Bonfires are prohibited all year round in forests and on the banks of mountain rivers. 5 000 – 10 000
    Siberia and Far East Survival fires are permitted, but only with forestry permits. 3 000 – 5 000
    Leningrad region Bonfires are prohibited on the banks Ladoga and Onega lakes with April to November. 4 000

    B reserves and national parks (for example, Sochi National Park or Baikal) the rules are even stricter: fires are prohibited always, except for special zones. Violation may not only result in a fine, but also expel from the territory.

    Advice: Before traveling, check the latest rules on the regional website Ministry of Emergency Situations or in tourist groups on social networks (for example, “Hiking in Russia” on VKontakte).

    FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to make a fire on the river bank in winter?

    Yes, but only if the shore not covered with dry grass and is not surrounded by coniferous forest. In most regions with December 1 to March 15 relaxations apply, but Siberia and on Far East There may be local restrictions. Always check the absence special fire regime.

    What distance should be from the fire to the water?

    The law does not regulate the minimum distance from the fire to the river, but recommended retreat no less 3–5 metersto:

    • 🌊 Avoid sparks getting into the water (especially if there are fishermen with boats nearby).
    • 🏖️ Do not spoil the beach area for other vacationers.
    • 🌿 Do not damage coastal vegetation.
    Is it possible to use driftwood found on the shore for a fire?

    Technically you can, but:

    • ✅ Allowed to take dry brancheslying on the ground.
    • ❌ It is prohibited to break living trees or collect dead wood in nature reserves.
    • ⚠️ In some regions (for example, Karelia) for collecting firewood without permission, a fine of 1,000–2,000 rubles.

    It is better to take firewood with you or buy it from local residents.

    What should I do if my vacation neighbor lit a fire, and it bothers me?

    follow the algorithm:

    1. Politely ask to put out or move the fire, citing discomfort from smoke.
    2. If the request is ignored, take a photo of the fire pit and call 112 or in forestry.
    3. As a last resort, contact district police officer or inspector GIMS (if we are talking about a body of water).

    Don't get into conflict - it could backfire fine for unauthorized extinguishing (if you try to light someone else's fire).

    Is it possible to grill shish kebab on the river bank in a barbecue?

    Yes, if:

    • 🔥Grill metal and stands on flame retardant stand.
    • 🌳 Distance to trees - no less 5 m.
    • 📜 Not in the region special fire regime.

    But even in this case prohibited use coal briquettes with additives (they give more sparks) and leave the grill unattended.