RDCO lifts campfire ban

Photo: Contributed

The wet, cooler weather we are experiencing has prompted the Regional District of Central Okanagan to lift its campfire ban.

Effective immediately, campfires will once again be allowed within most fire jurisdictions across the Central Okanagan. 

The lifting of the campfire ban coincides with a similar action by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations by the Kamloops Fire Centre within the Penticton Fire Zone. 

Campfires will again be allowed within the District of West Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland and the fire protection districts within the Central Okanagan East and Central Okanagan West Electoral Areas (Joe Rich, Ellison, Wilson’s Landing, North Westside).

Campfires are not allowed at any time within the City of Kelowna.

Under Regional District and other local municipal bylaws, campfires must not create nuisance smoke and only untreated, seasoned firewood may be burned.  As well, a campfire must be continuously controlled and supervised by a competent person that has materials or equipment to extinguish the campfire.

At this time, open burning is not allowed. 

As well, local bylaws prohibit the use of any fireworks at any time throughout most areas of the Central Okanagan.  Use of fireworks in the District of Lake Country and District of West Kelowna must be approved in writing by the Fire Chief.

Violators could receive a fine and be charged the cost of the fire department response to a burning complaint.  Residents are encouraged to report anyone who is illegally burning by calling the Regional Fire Dispatch Centre at 250-469-8577.