Province-wide Fire Ban Lifted!
The province-wide outdoor fire ban in Newfoundland and Labrador has officially been lifted. The ban, which had prohibited all outdoor fires on or within 300 metres of forested land, was enacted under Section 99 of the Forestry Act due to elevated fire risks in recent weeks.
With the ban now lifted, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is reminding residents that fire safety rules are still in place, especially with Forest Fire Season continuing until September 30.
“A Permit to Burn is still required to burn brush and other materials during Forest Fire Season,” the department said in a release.
“These permits are free and can be obtained at your local Forest Management District Office.”
It’s important to note that Permits to Burn are not required for backyard fires, campfires, or boil-ups within 300 metres of forested areas — as long as the fire is contained in a wood-burning unit that meets provincial safety standards. That means:
The fire must be completely enclosed in a non-combustible unit,
Screened to prevent sparks,
Raised off the ground,
Set on a non-combustible surface at least 1.5 square metres in size, and
Located at least 3.5 metres from any flammable materials.
“We urge all residents to do their part to help prevent forest fires,” the Department said.
“Check the current Fire Hazard Rating before lighting any fire, and ensure you are always in compliance with the regulations.”
Here’s what else you need to know:
Permits to Burn are suspended automatically when the fire hazard rating is high, very high, or extreme.
No open fires are allowed at all in regions with a very high or extreme hazard rating.
You can still use gas, kerosene, propane, alcohol, or charcoal-burning devices — but they must be at least 3.5 metres away from flammable materials.
Fire Safety Reminders:
Never leave a fire unattended.
Always have water and tools nearby to extinguish a fire.
Discard ashes and coals on mineral soil, at least 15 metres from any brush or forested area.
ORV users should ensure spark arrestors are in place and carry an ABC-class fire extinguisher (minimum 225 grams) in grassy or wooded areas.
And of course, if you see a wildfire, call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473) immediately.
