Falmouth residents invited to comment on beach fire ban proposal
A consultation has been launched on Public Spaces Protection Orders for local beaches
Residents in Falmouth are being encouraged to share their opinions on a proposal to ban open fires on local beaches.
The Falmouth Beaches Management Group and Falmouth Town Council are seeking a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to outlaw open fires at Gyllyngvase, Maenporth, Castle, and Swanpool beaches following a rise in such activities in recent years.
According to the management group, large fires can continue smouldering, presenting risks of burns to beachgoers.
Hidden embers or hot ash pose dangers as they might not be visible once extinguished.
Instances have occurred where items such as crates and fences were used for fires, leaving hazardous debris like nails and fastenings in the sand, risking injury to visitors, including barefoot attendees, children, and animals.
There is also the potential for fires to spread, especially under dry or windy conditions, threatening nearby dunes, vegetation, and wildlife habitats.
Smoke from the fires can impact residents, visitors, and businesses, while fire damage degrades coastal environments, necessitating costly clean-up efforts.
Leaving scarred beaches and unsightly blackened sand, open fires also stress local council and volunteer resources who maintain these areas.
If introduced, the PSPO would make lighting fires on Falmouth’s beaches a criminal offence, with Falmouth Town Council officers patrolling the shores to enforce the order.
Those found in violation could receive a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice or face further prosecution.
The consultation, launched by Cornwall Council on 15th April 2026, asks for public input before moving forward with the PSPO.
Councillor Thalia Marrington, cabinet member for Community Safety and Public Protection at Cornwall Council, emphasised the importance of balancing enjoyment and safety at local beaches.
Marrington said: “Please do complete the survey and have your say.”