Burning Information
Open Fire & Fire Danger Rating
Details on the open fire prohibition schedule for coastal fire centre can be found here. Fire Danger Rating map and information can be found here.Backyard Category 2
Category 2 fire: 1-2 concurrently burning piles no larger than 2 meters high by 3 meters wide.
From noon PDT, May 17, 2024 no backyard burning due to Coastal Fire Centre restrictions. Details can be found here.
This prohibition applies to all public and private land, unless specified otherwise (e.g., in a local government bylaw). People are asked to check with local government authorities for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.
The following activities and equipment are currently prohibited throughout the Coastal Fire Centre:
Land Clearing Debris Category 3
Once it has been determined that there is no burning prohibition in effect land clearing debris burning is allowed and does not require a burning permit. BUT the following guidelines must be used:
- A burn reference number must be obtained (1-888-797-1717)
- Ensure that the venting index is "GOOD" on the day you start the burn and forecast to be "GOOD" or "FAIR" on the following day. DO NOT USE THE MORNING INDEX, USE THE AFTERNOON ONLY (use "CNTRL VAN ISLD" for Nanoose venting).
The “NEW” OPEN BURNING SMOKE CONTROL REGULATION MUST BE FOLLOWED - information can be found here.
Information on the Open Burning Smoke Regulation can be found here.
Compliance and Enforcement: Anyone failing to obtain appropriate authorization for discharging waste into the environment by burning contravenes EMA and may receive a fine not exceeding $1,000,000 or imprisonment for not more than 6 months. Non-compliance with the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation can result in a fine of up to $200,000. In addition, the Ministry has a range of tools to address compliance issues including orders, administrative sanctions and administrative penalties.