Effective at noon on Friday, May 17, 2019, Category 2 open burning will once again be allowed throughout the Northwest Fire Centre’s jurisdiction.

The definition of a Category 2 open fire is:

• one to two concurrently burning piles no larger than three metres wide by two metres high; or
• the burning of stubble or grass over an area less than 0.2 hectares.

A map showing the boundaries of the Northwest Fire Centre is available online: https://governmentofbc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=ef6f11c8c36b42c29e103f65dbcd7538

Although fire danger ratings have dropped in the region due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, the public is strongly encouraged to exercise caution with any outdoor burning or campfire use. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that burning is done in a safe and responsible manner in accordance with open burning regulations. Before lighting any fire, people should check with local government authorities to see if any local burning restrictions are in place.

Anyone planning to burn a pile larger than two metres high by three metres wide, or conduct a grass burn larger than 0.2 hectares (Category 3 fires), must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time by calling 1 888 797-1717.

A poster explaining the different categories of open burning is available online: http://ow.ly/znny309kJv5

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

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