The BC Wildfire Service has announced a five-month ban on large fires across the Kamloops Fire Centre, that will take effect next Friday, May 3.
With fire season off to an early start, the ban on Category 3 fires will run until Oct. 11, covering the area that runs from Blue River in the north to the U.S. border, and from Bridge River in the west to the Monashee Mountains in the east.
Category 3 fires include all fires larger than two metres high by three metres wide. It also includes three or more concurrently burning piles no larger than two metres high by three metres wide, any windrows and stubble or grass burning over an area greater than 0.2 hectares in size.
These bans come as drought conditions still cover much of B.C., leading to worries about another challenging season after last year’s record destruction.
“These prohibitions apply to all public and private land within the Kamloops Fire Centre jurisdiction, unless specified otherwise in an enactment (e.g. in a local government bylaw),” the BC Wildfire Service said. “Before lighting any fire, people should check with local government authorities to see if any other burning restrictions are in effect.”
The ban in the Kamloops Fire Centre does not ban Category 2 fires or campfires nor does it apply to gas, propane or briquette cooking stoves.
All fires larger than a campfire are already off limits across the both Cariboo and the Prince George Fire Centres.
People found in violation of the ban could be issued a ticket for $1,150, and be required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000. If convicted in court, people could be also be fined up to $100,000, and/or spend up to one year in jail.
People who are found to be responsible for a fire may also be required to pay all firefighting and other related costs.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
For the latest on fire bans and restrictions, go here.
Effective at 12:00 pm (noon) on May 3, 2024, Category 3 open fires will be prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre. This prohibition is being enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. pic.twitter.com/sgK78LjXep
— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) April 24, 2024
