Why this widely-used gardening tool can land you a large fine in France

The arrival of spring causes many people to turn their attention towards their garden which will be waking up and ready to bloom into life. 

It also means for many a period of clearing out their garden in preparation for the warmer months. 

In some areas, this is mandatory to reduce the likelihood and risk of forest fires.

Read more: French property owners and tenants: what are rules for obligatory undergrowth clearance?

Regardless of if you are cleaning in your garden because you have to – or merely want to – you should be aware of the rules surrounding burning green waste (déchets verts).

The government service-public.fr website defines the main types of green waste.

Burning green waste is forbidden in France year-round, and has been since 2011. This is because burning plants, especially when damp, can release substances toxic to humans and the environment.

There are limited circumstances in which local authorities may individually approve the practice (for example, to contain the spread of invasive species). If you believe you may be impacted by this, you should verify with your local authorities by using this official tool.

Read more: What are the rules for burning garden waste in France in 2025? 

Those caught breaking the rules risk a fine of up to €750, however studies by the French ecological transition agency ADEME have found that up to 15% of homeowners in the country still burn garden waste. 

Tools to aid green waste burning banned

To this end, the French government has made an effort to limit at-home burnings with green waste collections and – in some areas – allowing it to be dropped off at tips/waste centres (déchetteries). 

It has also sought to limit the tools people can use to quickly burn green waste, including incinerators. 

Article L541-21-1 of the French environmental code in February 2020 banned the use of these tools. 

Those caught using such a tool risk a fine of €750.

If the use of this inadvertently starts a blaze, as can happen particularly during periods of drought – penalties can be far more severe. 

In addition to a ban on using the tools, all stores in France were also banned from stocking or selling at-home incinerators. 

Perusal of the websites of several major garden/DIY retailers in France will not yield results for incinerators, although they may still be possible to purchase on international e-commerce sites. 

However, you still risk a fine if using one, regardless of how you acquired it, including if acquired prior to the ban. 

Read more: Errors to avoid and how to help wildlife as you get your garden in France ready for spring