As summer temperatures rise in Leeds, park visitors are being reminded that barbecues are not allowed in any of the city’s parks or green spaces.
The ban is in place to help protect the natural environment and the wildlife that call it home. However, visitors are still very welcome to enjoy picnics in the parks. Barbecues pose a significant fire risk, especially during hot, dry weather. Hot ash and falling embers can easily ignite dry grass, leading to fast-spreading fires. In addition to the fire danger, barbecues can cause lasting damage to vegetation and have a harmful impact on local wildlife.
Visitors are also urged to dispose of their litter responsibly by using bins or taking it home, as discarded waste can pose a serious fire risk. Glass bottles left in direct sunlight can act as magnifiers and ignite dry grass, while carelessly discarded cigarettes can also spark wildfires.
Wildfires are an increasingly frequent threat in the UK. The National Fire Chiefs Council has warned that 2025 could be one of the most severe years on record. Already this spring, Marsden Moor suffered extensive damage from a major wildfire. Earlier this month, firefighters battled a significant blaze near the M62, which spread rapidly in two directions, covering approximately two kilometres each way.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space said:
“Every year as we start getting nice weather in Leeds, we love seeing people out and enjoying the sunshine in our parks and greenspaces. We do need to really raise awareness and remind people that we don’t allow barbecues or any kind of fire lighting, and that littering can also start fires.
“I know it can seem like a harmless thing, but barbecues and littering can lead to fires that are devastating for the wildlife, and our parks, so please bring a picnic to the park instead!
“If you do see a grass fire, please call 999.”
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s assistant district commander for Leeds, Aaron Clark said:
“We’re lucky enough to have some great green spaces here in Leeds but we just really want people to enjoy them safely. That includes things like not taking barbecues to parks or grassy areas – they can get hot and cause a lot of damage.
“For our crews, outdoor fires can be really intensive to tackle and take up a lot of resources, so it’s best for the whole community if you can help us by leaving barbecues at home.”
Wildfires caused by barbecues or open flames have devastating consequences for wildlife. Ground-nesting birds, small mammals, and insects are particularly vulnerable, with many unable to escape fast-spreading fires. Vegetation destroyed in such fires can take years to recover, upsetting the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Even when fires don’t break out, hot barbecues and discarded coals can scorch grass, leave behind scars on the landscape, and leach harmful substances into the soil.
Beyond barbecues, other forms of litter also contribute to fire risks. Glass bottles left in the sun can magnify heat and ignite dry grass. Cigarettes tossed on the ground can smolder unnoticed and lead to fires hours later. Properly disposing of waste is not just considerate —it’s essential to preventing dangerous situations.
Leave the barbecue at home: Cook before you go and bring food in sealed containers.
Pack a picnic: Enjoy a meal without the risk of open flames.
Dispose of litter responsibly: Take your waste home or use the provided bins.
Report fires immediately: If you see smoke or flames, call 999 and alert others nearby.
Protecting our parks during the summer is a shared responsibility. By making small changes to how we enjoy our outdoor spaces, we can help preserve these areas for wildlife, future generations, and safe summer memories.
