Open Fire Ban Takes Effect June 27 Across Northwest Fire Centre

A new open fire prohibition will come into effect at noon on June 27 across the entire Northwest Fire Centre, covering the Nadina, Coast Mountain, and Skeena Stikine Forest Districts. The ban targets Category 2 and 3 fires, which include burning moderate to large piles of debris, stubble, grass, and windrows. Along with these fires, the use of fireworks, burn barrels, controlled air incinerators, air curtain burners, carbonizers, and binary exploding targets will also be prohibited. This ban applies to all Crown land outside municipal boundaries and specific protected areas inside municipalities, including parks, recreation sites, ecological reserves, and wildlife management areas. The Village of Hazelton and the District of Stewart are also included in the prohibition zone. Category 1 fires, such as small campfires, remain permitted. Those with existing Category 2 or 3 fires must extinguish them by noon on June 27. The ban will stay in place until September 29 or until authorities lift it. Penalties for breaking the rules range from fines to jail time, especially if the fire causes a wildfire. The BC Wildfire Service encourages everyone to stay updated through their website, app, or social media and to report any wildfires immediately.