Gardens in France: Advice to avoid fires next summer
In November 2023, the French Government launched an interministerial advice and information campaign to remind people of their obligations to clear their gardens and the benefits of doing so during fall to reduce or avoid the risk of fires in the summer.
Fall and winter are the best seasons to clear vegetation around your house, as plants lose their leaves and become easier to prune without disrupting the reproduction cycles of fauna and flora, which take place in spring.
Strategic tree-cutting and garden-clearing
Clearing involves reducing the mass of all kinds of plant matter on land, including grass, branches and leaves, to avoid close proximity and contact between tall vegetation like trees and low vegetation. Plants of the same size and those close to buildings should also be cleared.
Creating these discontinuities helps reduce the risk of fire and, in the event of a fire, slows down its spread and reduces its intensity. The further a tree is from a house or another tree, the more difficult it will be for the fire to spread. Generally speaking, the less combustible material present, the less powerful the fire will be.
Compulsory preventive measures in some areas
In areas prone to forest fires, it is mandatory to clear brush to avoid administrative or criminal penalties. Even if your land is not subject to this obligation, it is still recommended, especially if you live near a wooded area. Clearing brush can help protect your home, providing a safe place to stay during a fire without risking your safety by attempting to evacuate in a vehicle.
You must clear your land properly
- remove shrubs under trees
- cut branches or trees in contact with your house
- reduce the mass of plants present on the ground
- trim your hedges
- prune low branches of trees
- do not keep green waste from clearing
Clear every year, winter is best
It is recommended to perform clearing once a year. It is best to prune trees and shrubs during the winter season. Trimming of low vegetation, on the other hand, can be carried out until the end of spring. If you own a second home or have a large piece of land, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional with the necessary expertise and tools. And remember, house and content insurance is compulsory in France, which covers third-party liability in case someone gets hurt while you’re working away.
