Campfire Restrictions Lifted in Lower Mainland and Additional Coastal Fire Centre Districts
The campfire ban, which had been implemented since June 8, has now been lifted in select regions of the province, as announced by the BC Wildfire Service. Effective from noon on Wednesday, individuals are permitted to have Category 1 fires, specifically campfires, in the following districts: Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast, Chilliwack, and certain areas of the Central Coast. This region encompasses the entirety of the Lower Mainland.
The decision to lift the ban in these areas has been prompted by the arrival of cooler weather conditions and the occurrence of rainfall. These factors have contributed to a decrease in the fire danger rating, thereby enabling the wildfire service to revise the restrictions on campfires.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, if there are any changes in conditions, the possibility of reimplementing the ban remains.
Throughout the Coastal Fire Centre, which encompasses various regions, the ban on Category 2 and 3 fires remains in effect. This includes the prohibition of activities such as fireworks, sky lanterns, and burn barrels.
On Vancouver Island and the majority of the Gulf Islands, campfires continue to be prohibited.
It is important to note that violating a fire ban can result in a fine of $1,150. In the event of conviction in court, individuals may face a maximum fine of up to $100,000, imprisonment for a period of one year, or both, as outlined by the BC Wildfire Service.