Effective at noon today, August 28, campfires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. But the ban remains in place for Category 2 fires, including backyard burn piles and burn barrels.
The Coastal Fire Centre will rescind its existing campfire prohibition due to cooler weather in the forecast, which will result in a decreased wildfire risk in the region. The following activities will now be allowed:
• Campfires, as defined by the wildfire regulation.
• Open fires in an outdoor stove.
The public is reminded that campfires must not be larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide. Anyone who lights a campfire must have a hand tool (such as a shovel) or at least eight litres of water available to fully extinguish it. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure that the ashes are completely cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
Small backyard burning piles (Category 2 fires) remain prohibited within the Coastal Fire Centre, except in Haida Gwaii and the area known as the “fog zone”.
Category 2 fires include:
• The burning of any material in a pile larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide, up to two metres high by three metres wide;
• The burning of stubble or grass covering an area up to 0.2 hectares; and
• Fireworks, sky lanterns and burning barrels of any size and description.
Check with local governments for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or non-compliant open burning, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.