Starting at noon on May 7, most open burning will no longer be allowed across Vancouver Island and the wider Coastal Fire Centre region, according to the BC Wildfire Service. The restriction covers everything from small campfires to larger burning activities, and is expected to stay in place until October 31, unless conditions improve sooner.

Only on Haida Gwaii are small campfires (Category 1) still allowed. In all other areas, only certified outdoor stoves that use gas, liquid fuel, or charcoal and keep the flame under 15 cm are permitted.

The rules apply widely across the region, especially outside municipal areas, but also in many parks, recreation sites, ecological reserves, and privately managed forest lands. The ban also includes fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels, and any other devices that produce open flames.

Open burning is one of the main causes of human-caused wildfires in British Columbia. With dry conditions already developing, officials say the goal is to lower the risk early and ease pressure on firefighting resources as the season progresses.

Anyone who breaks the ban can face a $1,150 ticket, administrative penalties of up to $10,000, or, if taken to court and convicted, fines of up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in jail. If a fire is caused, they may also be responsible for all firefighting costs.

Wildfires can be reported by calling 1-800-663-5555, dialing *5555 from a mobile phone, or using the BC Wildfire Service app.