The Community of Madrid intends to modify its Urban Tree Law, as part of the upcoming Forest Law, to facilitate the replacement of arizonica hedges with plant species that have lower combustion capacity. In the interim legislative period, the Regional Ministry of Environment, Agriculture, and Interior will inform municipalities about the hazard level of these plant enclosures, which they must consider when processing pruning permits requested by individuals.
Arizonicas and other coniferous plants, popular in private gardens for their rapid growth and ornamental value, pose a significant risk. Their resin content and dry branches promote quick and intense combustion, making them highly flammable elements that can endanger homes near forest areas.
In response to this danger, the Madrid 112 Security and Emergency Agency (ASEM112) will launch an awareness campaign through its institutional social media channels. The initiative was presented at the Majalacabra Park in Las Rozas de Madrid by the director of ASEM112, Pedro Antonio Ruiz, alongside regional Firefighters who demonstrated how these plants behave when exposed to fire.
Firefighters have issued practical recommendations for homeowners with these types of hedges: maintain them at least five meters away from buildings, avoid proximity to combustible materials like awnings or outdoor furniture, do not use plastic or heather fencing due to high flammability, and refrain from barbecuing or lighting fires near these hedges, especially on windy days.
As safer alternatives, the Forestry Agents Corps suggests replacing arizonicas with fire-resistant materials or plant species such as ivy, honeysuckle, star jasmine, boxwood, firethorn, or privet. Additionally, it is recommended that exterior enclosures have a brick or masonry base at least one meter high to act as a barrier against surface fires.
The INFOMA Plan (Special Civil Protection Plan for Forest Fire Emergencies of the Community of Madrid) mandates maintaining a 30-meter perimeter strip between homes and forest land, free of dry vegetation and with thinned trees. Undeveloped plots must also be kept clear of dry grass and plant debris to prevent the rapid spread of flames from embers and burning particles.
