Barbecuing is prohibited in all public places until further notice.
The city of Vienna has announced a complete ban on barbecuing in all public places due to the ongoing drought and the significant risk of wildfires. According to the city's Forestry and Agriculture Department (MA 49), the ban also includes smoking, using shisha, and handling any open flame sources within or near the forests.
Authorities have stated that prolonged dry periods without sufficient rainfall have caused severe drought for meadows and forests, significantly increasing the likelihood of wildfires. The ban will remain in effect until heavy rain falls continuously, as a measure to protect humans, animals, and nature.
The Deputy Director of the Forestry and Agriculture Department, Herbert Veidinger, warned residents against complacency, urging immediate reporting via the number 122 in case of noticing a fire or smoke rising while hiking.
Barbecuing in private gardens is only allowed if it is not located in danger zones near forests. Stadt Wien emphasizes the need for extreme caution, as security teams will closely monitor the enforcement of the ban.
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