2025-06-12 –
In alignment with BC Wildfire Service – Kamloops Fire Centre, Effective 12:00 PM (noon) on June 13, 2025, Category 2 open fires will be prohibited within the boundaries of the District of Clearwater. This seasonal ban is issued to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and will remain in effect until 12:00 PM on October 17, 2025, or until otherwise lifted.
What This Means for Residents and Property Owners
As of June 13, the following activities are not permitted anywhere within the District:
- Burning one or two piles of material (each no larger than 2m high by 3m wide)
- Burning stubble or grass over areas up to 0.2 hectares
- Use of burn barrels or burn cages of any size
- Fireworks of any kind
- Binary exploding targets
- Use of air curtain burners, carbonizers, and controlled air incinerators
If you’re planning a fire or activity that falls under these categories, it must be fully extinguished by noon on June 13.
For clarity on what constitutes a Category 2 fire, you can view the official Category 2 Open Fire Poster (PDF): category-2-open-fire-poster
What is Still Allowed (As of This Notice)
- Campfires (Category 1): Fires no larger than 0.5m high by 0.5m wide
- Cooking stoves that use gas, propane, or briquettes
These remain permitted for now, but may be restricted if conditions worsen. Always check the District’s website or BC Wildfire Service before lighting any fire.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Burning during a prohibition can result in:
- Fines starting at $1,150
- Administrative penalties up to $10,000
- Court fines up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment
- Liability for all firefighting and suppression costs if your fire causes a wildfire
Report Wildfire Concerns
To report a wildfire or unauthorized burning:
- Call 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free)
- Or dial *5555 from your cell phone
- Call 911 for active fire emergencies or unauthorized burning within the District of Clearwater