Starting tomorrow, the BC Wildfire Service is implementing a campfire ban in all parts of B.C., except Haida Gwaii.
The ban will take effect at noon (Pacific time) on Friday, July 12, 2024, and will remain until further notice.
The ban is being implemented to help prevent human-caused wildfires and help protect public safety. The category 1 (campfires) ban is in addition to current provincewide bans for category 2 and 3 fires. This means open fires of any size, except those licensed for prescribed burns, will be prohibited everywhere in B.C., outside of Haida Gwaii.
Much of B.C. has seen very hot, and sometimes record-breaking, temperatures over the past week, prompting Environment Canada to issue heat warnings for many regions. While heat warnings have been lifted in some areas, the hot weather is predicted to continue for parts of the province, combined with the risk of high winds and lightning.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, use the BC Wildfire Service mobile app or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free (*5555 on a cellphone).
Anyone found in contravention of an open-burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, may be required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, may be fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
Currently, approximately 140 wildfires are burning in B.C.
Information provided by the BC Government