Consultation Launched on Proposed Ban of Beach Fires in Falmouth

Beach Fires Could Soon Be Illegal in Falmouth

Residents are being asked to share their views on a proposal that could see open fires banned on several of Falmouth’s beaches.

The Falmouth Beaches Management Group and Falmouth Town Council are seeking to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order, known as a PSPO, which would prohibit open fires at Gyllyngvase, Maenporth, Castle and Swanpool beaches.

Why the ban is being considered

The proposal follows a rise in the number of open fires on local beaches in recent years. The Falmouth Beach Management Group has raised a number of concerns linked to this increase.

One of the main issues is the risk of burns. Large fires can continue to smoulder into the next day, with hot embers or buried ash not always visible to beach users.

There have also been reports of crates and fences being used to fuel fires. This can leave behind nails and metal fastenings in the sand, posing a risk to barefoot visitors, children and animals.

Other concerns include the potential for fires to spread, particularly in dry or windy conditions, which could threaten nearby dunes, vegetation and wildlife habitats.

Smoke from fires has also been highlighted as an issue for residents, visitors and businesses, while fire damage can affect the appearance of the beaches, leaving behind blackened sand.

Cleaning up after fires is another challenge, placing extra pressure on council teams and volunteers responsible for maintaining these areas.

What a PSPO would mean

If introduced, the PSPO would make lighting fires on these beaches a criminal offence.

Officers from Falmouth Town Council would patrol the beaches to enforce the order. Anyone found breaching it could receive a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice or face prosecution.

Have your say

Cornwall Council launched a public consultation on Wednesday 15th April 2026 and is encouraging people to take part.

Councillor Thalia Marrington, cabinet member with responsibility for Community Safety and Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said: “We want people to enjoy the beaches, but we have to keep everyone safe.

“We will take your feedback into account before any decisions are made on whether a PSPO should be put in place and if so, what that PSPO should look like.

“Please do complete the survey and have your say.”

The consultation is open until Sunday 14th June 2026 and can be accessed via the Let’s Talk Cornwall website.