Category 2 and 3 open fires prohibited within the District of Squamish

Category 2 and 3 fires are prohibited within the District of Squamish despite the decision made by the Province to lift open burning prohibitions within the Coastal Fire Centre's jurisdiction.

A Category 2 fire is defined as:

• One to two concurrently burning piles no larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide
• Stubble or grass burning over an area less than 0.2 hectares

A Category 3 fire is defined as:

• Any fire larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide
• Three or more concurrently burning piles no larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide
• One or more burning windrows
• Stubble or grass burning over an area greater than 0.2 hectares

Category 2 and 3 fires are not permitted within the District of Squamish without permit from the Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations. A person who has been authorized to start or conduct a fire under a permit issued by a government ministry or agency must also apply for a permit from the Fire Chief to notify the Fire Chief of the activity authorized under the Provincial permit before starting the fire. 

What is allowed:

Campfires are allowed within the District of Squamish; the ban was lifted on September 11, 2018. Residents wishing to light a campfire must first obtain a permit from the Fire Chief. Permits can be applied for online or in person at Squamish Fire Rescue Hall 2 located at 40439 Tantalus Road. 

General Burning Restrictions and Requirements:

• The only allowable material burned in the campfire consists of dry seasoned fire wood.
• The campfire must be continuously supervised and controlled by a competent adult, and must be equipped and knowledgeable in the use of extinguishing equipment and materials.
• The campfire must be no greater than 0.5 metres in height or diameter, nor shall it extend in any way beyond the permitted space, or location.
• Smoke from the campfire must not create a nuisance to other persons in the vicinity.
• At any time, the Fire Chief or designated officer may cancel or suspend any permit issued under this bylaw.
• Please see complete Fire Service Bylaw in order to ensure compliance.

Any person who contravenes, violates or fails to comply with any provision of the Fire Service Bylaw  could receive a fine of up to $10,000.00.

For more information on campfires and open air burning, and to apply for a campfire permit visit https://squamish.ca/fire-permit.

 

September 18, 2018