Heads up, Vancouver Island!
With temperatures rising, fire restrictions are rolling in ahead of what’s expected to be a dry summer.
As of 12 p.m. this Friday, May 30th, the BC Wildfire Service is banning most open burning across the Coastal Fire Centre, which includes all of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and most of the coastal mainland.
The only exception? Haida Gwaii, where lighter restrictions will apply.
This new ban targets Category 2 and Category 3 open fires, meaning you’ll need to hold off on things like burn piles, burn barrels, and even fireworks.
The good news is campfires are still allowed—for now—so you can still roast marshmallows as long as your fire is no bigger than half a metre wide and high, and you follow all safety precautions.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s not allowed starting Friday:
- Category 2 fires: one or two small burn piles, or grass burning under 0.2 hectares
- Category 3 fires: large piles, multiple burn piles, or windrows
Fireworks, exploding targets, burn barrels, incinerators, and carbonizers are also off-limits.
The ban applies to all areas outside of municipal boundaries, plus parks, conservancies, ecological reserves, recreation sites, wildlife areas, and private managed forests—even within city limits.
These restrictions will remain in place until at least October 31st, unless lifted earlier.
Anyone caught breaking the rules could face fines of up to $100,000, a year in jail, or be on the hook for firefighting costs if their actions spark a wildfire.
With wildfire season ramping up, authorities are urging everyone to do their part. If you see smoke or a fire that seems out of place, you can report it by calling 1-800-663-5555, texting *5555, or using the BC Wildfire Service app.
