As we approach the warmer months, fire prevention becomes increasingly critical across Portugal, especially in rural regions.

This year, the government has extended the deadline for mandatory land clearing ("limpeza de terrenos") to May 31st, 2025.

This extension provides property owners with additional time to ensure their land is properly maintained, helping to protect homes, farms, forests, and communities from the devastating risk of wildfires.

What You Need to Know

• Who is responsible?
  Landowners and tenants are responsible for clearing their land. If you own property, even if it's unoccupied, you are required to maintain it.

• What needs to be done?

  • Cut grass, weeds, shrubs, and small trees.
  • Clear a 50-metre buffer zone around houses, buildings, and structures.
  • Create a 10-metre buffer zone along public roads, paths, and railway lines.
  • Ensure trees within these zones are trimmed to maintain a minimum distance between crowns (4 metres) and 4 metres clearance from ground level.

• Why is this important?
  Beyond avoiding fines—which can range from €280 to €120,000 depending on the situation—proper land clearing significantly reduces the chance of fire spreading and gives firefighters a better chance to contain any outbreaks.

• What happens after May 31st?
  After the deadline, inspections may be carried out by local authorities. If land is found to be non-compliant, fines can be issued, and in some cases, the government may arrange clearing and bill the landowner for the work.

Need Help?

If you need assistance clearing your land, consider contacting local contractors or your local Junta de Freguesia, many of which have lists of approved service providers.

Some volunteer groups and municipal services may also offer help, especially for elderly or vulnerable residents—check locally!

Stay Informed

Wildfire risk is a part of life in rural Portugal, but by taking action early, we can all help to protect our homes and countryside.

Stay up to date by following local news, municipal updates, and Civil Protection alerts, particularly as we move into the critical fire season (July to September).

Official Source: Government of Portugal – Extension of Land Clearing Deadline