Brighton and Hove Could Extend Ban on Disposable Barbecues and Lanterns

Brighton and Hove City Council is seeking public feedback on whether to extend its current ban on disposable barbecues, balloons, and lanterns across all council-owned land.

Introduced in July 2022 through a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), the ban applies to beaches, parks, and open spaces. It was brought in following a public consultation that showed strong support for reducing fire risks, environmental damage, and harm to wildlife.

The current PSPO is set to expire in August 2025. The council is now reviewing whether to continue the restrictions and has launched a public survey, which runs until Sunday, July 20.

Councillor Tim Rowkins, lead member for net zero and environmental services, said these items pose unnecessary risks, adding that there are more sustainable alternatives. The council describes disposable barbecues as a significant fire hazard, with incidents of bins catching fire and damage to public spaces reported. Balloons and lanterns, once released, are often unrecoverable and can cause injury or death to wildlife.

Anyone found using banned items on council land currently faces a £100 fine.

Reusable barbecues remain permitted in designated areas. Full details of the existing ban and the public survey are available on the Brighton and Hove City Council website.