Xàbia calls on plot owners to clear land as fire prevention measure

With the imminent arrival of summer and the increased risk of forest fires, Xàbia mayor Rosa Cardona has issued a decree calling on all owners of rural and urban land to clean, clear, and maintain their plots, warning that the municipality has experienced several fires in previous years, which, although controlled in a timely manner, highlight the vulnerability of certain areas, especially those with high ecological value such as the Parque Natural del Montgó.

The decree reminds of the legal obligation, contained in the Municipal Ordinance on Citizen Coexistence and Security, to maintain plots of land in adequate conditions of safety, health, and appearance. This includes clearing debris, waste, weeds, wild vegetation, abandoned appliances, and any items that pose a health or environmental risk. Furthermore, the dumping of waste on both public and private land is prohibited, and it is stipulated that inactive lots or lots where construction work is halted must be kept closed and in proper condition.

In the event of noncompliance, the local council may formally require the owners to clear their plots within a period ranging from 24 hours to 15 days, depending on the urgency. Failure to comply will result in subsidiary enforcement, with the subsequent allocation of costs to the owners and possible administrative sanctions.

The decree also states that agricultural plots must be well maintained, trimming back any vegetation that extends beyond the boundaries of the land. Those with fruit trees will be considered abandoned if the undergrowth exceeds 1,20 meters or if the vegetation level obstructs access. And, in the case of land located within the Parque Natural de Montgó, work must be coordinated with the park managers and the relevant authorizations must be requested in advance.

Finally, the mayor calls for community co-responsibility: “Only with the collaboration of all property owners and the rigorous enforcement of regulations can we prevent fires and protect our natural and urban environment.”

Xàbia Council has reiterated that these measures are essential to guarantee the safety of people, property, and natural spaces, and is committed to intensifying inspection and monitoring efforts in the coming weeks.