Campfire ban coming into effect in Kamloops area

“This is to help prevent human caused wildfires,” said Alexander Robinson, a BC Wildfire Service information officer. “As of right now, we do have a category 2 and 3 open fire prohibitions in place as well. So as of this Friday, category 1, 2 and 3 prohibitions will all be in effect as of noon.”

The wildfire service defines a campfire as an open fire that is no larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide. In 2025, a campfire ban wasn’t placed in the Kamloops Fire Centre until Aug. 28.

“Multiple factors are taken into account when implementing a prohibition” added Robinson.

“That includes current and forecasted weather conditions, the availability of firefighting resources and more. “The process for determining fire risk is complex and can vary in different parts of the province. based on current and forecasted weather conditions, geographic diversity and more.”

The ban doesn’t include using approved outdoor stoves, including those powered by gas, propane or other permitted fuels.

Anyone found violating an open burning prohibition may be ticketed for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.

People are encouraged to call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone if they spot a wildfire, as well as submitting a photo on the BC Wildfire Service mobile app. They’re also being urged to follow all fire restrictions and use caution while enjoying outdoor spaces.

“Camping is a long-standing tradition in this province,” the BC Wildfire Service said in a statement.

“The B.C. government recognizes that people also enjoy having campfires, so it takes any decision to implement a campfire ban very seriously. Wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. Human-caused wildfires are completely preventable and divert critical resources away from lightning-caused wildfires.”

by Aaron Schulze & Jeremy Russo

Campfire ban coming into effect in Kamloops area

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