Cyprus Forest Department restricts high-risk tools to prevent wildfires

The Cyprus Department of Forests has announced strict regulations concerning the use of heat-generating or spark-producing tools in and near forested areas. From June 1 to September 30, it is prohibited to use equipment such as metal cutters, welding machines, and blowtorches in state forests and within a two-kilometer buffer zone. Exceptions are granted only to those who obtain official written permission from their local forestry station. These restrictions do not apply to residential, industrial, or designated craft zones, even if they fall within the two-kilometer radius. Individuals found using prohibited equipment without a permit face an administrative fine of 2,000 euros. Furthermore, authorities have warned that any actions leading to a forest fire will result in severe legal consequences, following recent legislative amendments that increased penalties for such offenses. The measures are intended to mitigate the risk of wildfires during the dry and hot Mediterranean summer months.