Overview

• The open wood fire ban took effect July 30 and will remain in place until Oct. 15 or until significant rainfall occurs.
• All industrial burn permits have been revoked, federal lands are exempt and non-wood-burning devices like gas and charcoal grills remain allowed.
• Violators face a base fine of $25,000 plus surcharge and HST for a total penalty of $28,872.50, and tickets are already being issued.
• The BurnSafe map stays at maximum alert level, signaling that no open fires of any kind are permitted on private or provincial lands.
• Officials warn parched conditions have driven flames deep into the ground, making containment more difficult without imminent rain.