News
Wildfire Prevention
- Published: May 24, 2024
Wildfire Prevention
Nova Scotia is in the heart of wildfire season. Weather is getting warmer and dryer, putting us at greater risk this time of year.
In Nova Scotia, almost all wildfires are caused by people, so prevention is our first line of defence. Wildfire prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Let’s not have another season like last year’s.
Learn about preventing wildfire at: https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/
BurnSafe Map
Burn restrictions are in place during wildfire season to help protect you and your community. Here’s what you need to know and do:
There is no open fire burning allowed between 8 am and 2 pm because that’s often when the risk of wildfires is greatest. That’s why the BurnSafe map is red during those hours.
Check the map at 2 p.m. daily to see if burning is allowed in your county:
- Red – no burning
- Yellow – you can burn after 7 p.m.
- Green – you can burn after 2 p.m.
- Fires must be out by 8 am the following day
You also need to check municipal bylaws – if they are stricter, they take precedence over provincial burn restrictions.
Effective May 16, 2024, the fine for violating the daily burn restrictions is $25,000.
Where burn restrictions apply
During wildfire season, burn restrictions apply to domestic open fire burning. This includes: campfires, burn pits, brush burning, backyard fires and bonfires, backyard chiminea and similar appliances.
Effective May 16, 2024, burn restrictions also apply in provincial, municipal or privately-operated campgrounds. National parks are under the jurisdiction of Parks Canada.
Please – follow the daily burn restrictions at https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/ and don’t start the next wildfire.
