Campfire ban reinstated for B.C.’s Coastal Fire Centre

If you were thinking about roasting marshmallows over a campfire this weekend, you might have to make other plans — the BC Wildfire Service is bringing back a campfire ban that covers most of the Coastal Fire Centre.

The ban comes into effect on Friday at noon, and covers the entirety of the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Sea to Sky region, and Vancouver Island. The ban is slated to last until October 31, 2023, unless the BC Wildfire Service opens campfire regulations back up beforehand.

“This prohibition is being enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety,” the service stated in a release.

In addition to banned campfires — fireworks, sky lanterns, exploding targets, and tiki torches are also off-limits — although outdoor stoves are still allowed as long as they use a liquid or gas-based fuel, and have a flame less than 15 centimetres tall.

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For those who opt not to follow regulations, the BC Wildfire Service says it will issue penalties that start with a $1,150 fine and can result in jail time, or up to $100,000 in fines if convicted in court.

It further explains that those found responsible for starting or contributing to a wildfire can be fined up to $100,000 in fines and could be held accountable for firefighting-related costs.

A campfire ban was issued for much of the Coastal Fire Centre on June 8, but it was lifted on June 21.

The BC Wildfire Service issued a campfire ban for the Kamloops Fire Centre Tuesday afternoon as well, although the ban in Kamloops only covers Category 1 campfires.