Fines totalling approximately $30,000 given out for unauthorized campfires during B.C. Day weekend celebrations
B.C. Issues $30,000 in Fines for Illegal Campfires During BC Day Long Weekend
Over the BC Day long weekend in 2025, British Columbia saw a surge in wildfires, leading to a crackdown on illegal campfires. A total of 26 fines worth $1,150 each were issued, amounting to nearly $30,000[1][3].
The majority of these fines, 16 tickets totaling $18,400, were issued in the Sea-to-Sky region[2][5]. Two tickets were issued on Vancouver Island for illegal campfires, while another two fines were related to unauthorized access near the Wesley Ridge wildfire area[1][3].
These fines were a result of the ongoing campfire bans due to drought conditions and high fire danger ratings in much of the Coastal Fire Centre region, including the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island[1][3]. The ban was implemented to prevent the spread of wildfires, particularly in areas like the Sea-to-Sky region and the Wesley Ridge wildfire near Cameron Lake.
Open fires exceeding three metres in width are not permitted in British Columbia, despite campfires being allowed in other regions under specific conditions[4]. The B.C. Conservation Officer Service has been vigilant in enforcing these rules to ensure public safety and protect the environment.
However, despite these measures, dozens of people were reported to have ignored the campfire bans in British Columbia[1]. The authorities urge the public to respect the restrictions and take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires, especially during periods of high fire danger.
As of the latest updates, no new information has been released about the status of the Wesley Ridge wildfire or its impact on the community[6]. The B.C. Wildfire Service continues to monitor the situation closely and provides updates as necessary.
[1] B.C. Wildfire Service: Wildfire Updates [2] B.C. Wildfire Service: Sea-to-Sky Wildfire Updates [3] B.C. Conservation Officer Service: Illegal Campfire Fines [4] B.C. Wildfire Service: Campfire Regulations [5] B.C. Conservation Officer Service: Sea-to-Sky Region Fines [6] B.C. Wildfire Service: Wesley Ridge Wildfire Updates
- The surge in wildfires in British Columbia during the BC Day long weekend was not limited to fines for illegal campfires, as the environmental science community also raised concerns about the impact on the general-news landscape and the health of the environment.
- Alongside the various weather patterns and crime-and-justice updates, the illegal campfire fines in British Columbia made headlines in the general-news sector, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and adherence to fire safety regulations to prevent further environmental damage.
