A total fire ban means no open air fires. During a total fire ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or carry out any activity in the open that causes or is likely to cause a fire. No outdoor fires of any kind. This ban includes bonfires, charcoal BBQ's, outdoor candles and lanterns, Tiki torches, chimeneas, burning brush or leaves, all outdoor solid fuel burning appliances, fireworks etc. Certified propane and natural gas appliances such as fire tables or barbeques that are TSSA approved are allowed.
Fire bans can also occur in our municipality when an order is made under the Forest Fires Prevention Act to implement a Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ). These temporary measures are put in place to prevent human-caused fires when the fire hazard is extreme and/or when firefighting resources are limited.
During a Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ) please contact the Ministry of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Tips Line to report non-emergency open air burning complaints at 1-877-TIPS-MNR (1-877-847-7667).
Penalties as prescribed by the Provincial Offences Act. Once a Restricted Fire Zone is declared, it is illegal to set a fire for any purpose within the affected area unless specific conditions have been met. Failure to comply could result in: fine up to $25,000,three months in jail, financial responsibility for any costs incurred in fighting a forest fire.