Key Facts
• From January to June 2025, 19 open burning violations were reported.
• This marks a significant rise from 7 cases during the same period in 2024.
• Violations include 12 cases of waste disposal law breaches and 7 cases of fire misuse.
• Increased reports followed large-scale forest fires in Iwate and Ehime prefectures.
• Most cases were reported by third parties or fire departments.
• Police intensified patrols to prevent incidents and raise public awareness.
• Open burning is generally prohibited under the Waste Disposal Law, with limited exceptions.
• Police urge residents to avoid careless actions that could lead to major fires.
Summary
The number of open burning violations in the first half of 2025 rose sharply to 19 cases, compared to 7 during the same period last year. This increase is attributed to heightened public awareness following large-scale forest fires and stricter enforcement by police. Violations included illegal waste burning and fire misuse, often discovered through third-party reports. Authorities emphasize that open burning is a crime under the Waste Disposal Law, except in specific agricultural cases, and call for adherence to regulations to prevent potential disasters.
