The campfire prohibition in all regions of the Coastal Fire Centre, including the District of Squamish, will be lifted effective Wednesday, August 28, at noon.
Campfires within the District of Squamish are only permitted on private property with a residential campfire permit. No campfires are allowed on public lands (such as parks, beaches, lakes, forested areas and trails) within the District of Squamish boundary.
“The current fire danger rating is low and is expected to remain so despite the hot dry weather in the forecast,” says Squamish Fire Rescue Chief Aaron Foote. “Human-caused fires are preventable and divert resources from lightning-caused fires and other critical responses. We appreciate community efforts on compliance this season that has significantly reduced the number of abandoned or unattended campfires within the District of Squamish.”
Although the fire danger has declined in the Coastal Fire Centre due to recent rainfall and cooler, more seasonal temperatures, the public is strongly encouraged to exercise extreme caution with any campfire. The individual is responsible for ensuring that burning is done safely and responsibly, and according to regulations.
While campfires will be allowed in the Coastal Fire Centre, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remain prohibited, including fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels, burn cages and air curtain burners. These restrictions will remain in place until October 31, 2024, or until the Order is rescinded.
Reminders about campfires
A campfire is defined as any fire smaller than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide;
Never light a campfire or keep it burning in windy conditions. Weather can change quickly, and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material;
Maintain a fireguard around your campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, leaves, kindling, etc.) have been removed right down to the soil;
Never leave a fire unattended;
Make sure that any fire is completely extinguished, and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time.
Always practice safe, responsible fire use where permitted.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 911 if within the municipal boundaries or call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
