Photo: Contributed

Open burning restrictions are being brought in throughout B.C. in an effort to reduce the risk of human-cased wildfires and improve air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of April 16 at noon, prohibited activities include:

• Category 2 open fires
• Category 3 open fires
• Resources management open fires
• Using fireworks
• Using sky lanterns
• Using burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description (except when used for a campfire)

Camp fires remain permitted, although they are currently banned in the Central Okanagan to maintain air quality during the pandemic. 

The restrictions apply to public and private land in B.C. Be sure to check with local authorities for any other potential restrictions before lighting a fire. 

Click here to view a poster explaining the different categories of opening burning.

A map of affected areas is available here.

To report an unattended campfire, open burning violation or wildfire call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free, or dial *5555 on a cellphone.