Burning Regulations

Updated Friday October 3, 2025:

Category 2 fires are allowed without a permit until further notice. Please observe regulations provided in the bylaw:

https://www.crd.ca/media/file/bylawno4489-fire-regulation-bylaw-no-2-2022

Category 3 open burns always require a permit

Open Burning Site

Environment Canada Smoke Control Forecast / Venting Index

Open Air Fires

The permit holder must ensure that all small brush piles are kept a minimum distance of 5 m (15 feet) from standing vegetation and fences and 10m (30 feet) from any structure.  The Permit holder must have a water source at the site and it must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times during burning.  Hand Piled Open fires are meant for burning waste materials:(paper, cardboard, lumber, brush, slash, trees, or other woody debris), not exceeding 2 meters (6 ft) in height and 1.5 meters (5 ft) in diameter.

Remember these points when burning:

  • Burn only during safe conditions… no wind and after the rain has fallen is best
  • Stay with the fire until it is completely out
  • Always have a garden hose available to prevent the fire from spreading
  • Avoid burning near buildings, trees or tall grass
  • Keep fires small and under control
  • Recycle and re-use applicable materials before burning
  • Check the Fire Hall Fire Hazard Board for updates on the local forest fire hazard
  • Remember to get a permit before you burn

Prohibited Burning Materials

TiresPlasticsDrywall
Demolition wasteDomestic wastePaint
Treated lumberAsphalt productsRubber
Fuel/Lubricant containersBiomedical wasteTar paper

Additional Burning Information Resources

BC Government – Ministry of Forests:

Permits – submit the form below to apply.  

  • Category 3 – piles larger than two meters in diameter and one meter in height and any land clearing debris.
  • Category 2 – burning debris in piles equal to or less than two meters in diameter and one meter in height.
  • Category 1 – includes domestic incinerators, beach fires, and campfires.