Open burning in the Coastal Fire Centre is prohibited as of Monday (May 16).
The ban on Category 2 fires – larger than a campfire, but smaller than two metres high by three metres wide – covers all B.C. parks, Crown and private lands on the Island and coast except for local governments that have fire bylaws.
The City of Nanaimo’s bylaws prohibit backyard burning on lots smaller than one acre.
People wishing to light larger fires, or more than two fires of any size, must comply with burning regulations and obtain a burn registration number by calling 1-888-797-1717.
Donna MacPherson, a spokeswoman for the Coastal Fire Centre, said the ban is typical for this time of year as the season switches from spring to summer.
“This gives everybody one more weekend to get their backyard burning done,” she said.
Campfires that are half a metre wide by half a metre tall or smaller are still permitted.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, please call toll-free 1-800-663-5555.
