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DeutschBC Fire Bans & Campfire Rules 2026: What Is Allowed Right Now
Published 2026-07-13 · FanVancouver Travel Desk
Status updated: July 12, 2026. Fire rules in BC change through the season by region. Always do a 2-minute check of the BC Wildfire Service fire bans page on the day you plan any fire — this page explains the system and the current situation on the south coast.
Current status — Coastal Fire Centre (Vancouver, Sea-to-Sky, Vancouver Island)
| Fire type | Status (Jul 12, 2026) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1 campfires (≤ 0.5 m × 0.5 m) | PERMITTED | A spring prohibition (from May 7, 2026) was rescinded on May 15, 2026 as conditions improved |
| Category 2 open fires (larger fires, ≤ 2 m high / 3 m wide, grass burning) | PROHIBITED | Banned since May 7, 2026 — in force until Oct 31, 2026 or until rescinded |
| Category 3 open fires (large/industrial burning) | PROHIBITED | Same order; also banned: fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels, binary targets |
New bans can be imposed at any time if hot, dry weather returns — mid-summer campfire bans are normal in BC. The status above applies to provincial Crown land; cities have their own stricter bylaws (see below).
The legal rules for a campfire (when allowed)
- Maximum size 0.5 m high × 0.5 m wide (a “category 1” fire under the Wildfire Regulation).
- Clear a fuel break down to mineral soil around the fire.
- Keep at least 8 litres of water or a hand tool (shovel) within reach the entire time.
- Never leave it unattended, don't light in wind, and pour water until ashes are cold to the touch before leaving.
- During campfire bans, only CSA/ULC-approved propane, gas or briquette devices with flame under 15 cm are allowed.
- Fines: C$1,150 ticket for violating a fire prohibition; up to C$100,000 + costs of suppression if your fire causes a wildfire.
City and park bylaws (always stricter)
- City of Vancouver: open fires, beach fires and briquette barbecues are banned year-round on beaches and in parks; only propane/gas BBQs in designated picnic areas.
- Metro Vancouver regional parks: no campfires at any time.
- BC Parks campgrounds: fires only in the metal ring at your site, and only when no ban is active — hosts post the current status at the gate.
- Pacific Rim National Park (Tofino): fires only below the high-tide line in designated areas, and frequently banned entirely in summer — check with Parks Canada.
Report a wildfire
Call 1-800-663-5555 or dial *5555 from a mobile — free, 24/7. Track active fires on the BC Wildfire Service live map. For smoke forecasts during fire season, see firesmoke.ca. Planning a trip? Our camping guide covers where fire rings are provided.
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