Popular barbecue site, El Esparragal park. Credit: Ayto
After months of summer restrictions, barbecue season is back in full swing across the Costa del Sol. But Mijas local government and police are reminding residents that one careless fire could have serious consequences, particularly at a popular recreation area covered by trees and close to vulnerable countryside.
The Ayuntamiento de Mijas has issued a warning urging people to take extra care when using the public barbecues at Parque El Esparragal, near Mijas Golf.
The park is a popular spot for family birthday parties, weekend gatherings and outdoor meals, with free public barbecue facilities available for visitors. However, its location presents particular concerns when it comes to preventing wildfires.
With local people making the most of the milder autumn weather after a long, hot summer, the park is once again attracting people keen to get together around a traditional barbecue. Local police patrols have also been seen in the area, underlining the importance of responsible behaviour when using the facilities.
Why El Esparragal is a major concern
The park has extensive tree cover and lies close to areas where a fire could spread into surrounding vegetation, including the Entrerrios area.
A barbecue may appear harmless when used in a designated cooking area, but embers can escape, while hot ash and improperly extinguished charcoal can pose a danger long after the cooking has finished.
Mijas has previously explained that El Esparragal falls within a forest-influence zone, making it subject to seasonal restrictions on the use of fire. The council has specifically identified the park as being within 400 metres of forest land in its previous warning about barbecue restrictions at El Esparragal.
Under Andalucian regulations, the highest fire-risk period normally runs from June 1 to October 15. However, the rules governing fires in forest and forest-influence areas depend on the location and the activity involved. Residents should consult the Andalucian government’s forest fire prevention rules and follow any local instructions.
The danger is not theoretical. In July 2025, a wildfire spread around Mijas Golf, with firefighters working through the night to contain the flames.
How to barbecue responsibly
Residents using the facilities should take particular care to make sure that fires are properly controlled and completely extinguished after use.
Practical precautions include:
- Never leave a lit barbecue unattended.
- Keep combustible materials away from the cooking area.
- Make sure charcoal and embers are completely extinguished before leaving.
- Dispose of ash safely rather than leaving hot residue behind.
- Follow any signs, instructions or temporary restrictions issued by the authorities.
El Esparragal provides a valuable public space for families and residents to enjoy the outdoors. Taking sensible precautions can help keep it available for everyone without putting nearby homes, woodland and countryside at risk.
