Outdoor Burning

Fire Ban Lifted – October 15, 2025

The Fire Ban has been lifted in Gillies Bay Fire Protection area as of today, October 15, 2025.

This means:

  • Open burning is permitted, if the pile does not exceed 2 metres in height and 3 metres in width.
  • Burn barrels are permitted.
  • Campfires are permitted, measuring no more than 18in X 18in.

As always:

Total Fire Ban July 17 – October 15

As the fire conditions are currently high, all burning on Texada Island is banned beginning Thursday July 17.

This means no campfires are allowed anywhere on the island!

This ban applies to all recreational and camping areas: Shelter Point, Bella Maria, Shingle Beach and Bob’s Lake.

Included in this ban are:

  • Sky lanterns
  • Wood-fired hot tubs, pizza ovens, and similar wood-fired devices (unless inside a building with a proper chimney)
  • Exploding targets
  • Fireworks
  • Burn barrels or cages
  • Air curtain burners and similar equipment

Propane campfires and BBQs are still allowed.

Please follow these regulations and use common sense to help prevent wildfires and keep everyone safe!

Open Burn Ban May 15 to October 15

Understanding the Open Burn Ban

As of May 15, 2025, Gillies Bay Improvement District implements an open burn ban due to heightened fire risks associated with dry conditions and seasonal weather patterns. This ban is a critical measure aimed at protecting our community, wildlife, and natural resources from the devastating impacts of wildfires.

Reasons for the Ban

  1. Texada Island: Experiences drier conditions than the mainland, resulting in a longer duration for our fire ban.
  2. Increased Fire Risk: Dry vegetation and high winds can quickly escalate small flames into uncontrollable wildfires. The ban helps mitigate this risk.
  3. Protection of Air Quality: Open burning can contribute to poor air quality, releasing harmful pollutants and particulates that can affect health.
  4. Wildlife Preservation: Fires can destroy habitats, threatening local wildlife and biodiversity.

What Does the Ban Entail?

  • Restrictions on Open Flames: Individuals are prohibited from burning yard waste, debris, or any other materials outdoors.
  • Restrictions on Burn Barrels: Individuals are prohibited from burning in burn barrels.

What about Campfires?

  1. Campfires are currently permitted within the Gillies Bay Fire Protection District until BC Wildfire Service decides to implement a total fire ban for the province.
  2. The camp fire must be for cooking or heat.
  3. The camp fire must be under 18 inched by 18 inches.
  4. You must have a water source already available before you start your fire!

    Gillies Bay Village Residents:

    If you hear the fire siren, please shut off any open taps until the fire emergency has been rectified.

    For more information:

    Fire Chief: Mike Corcoran * chief@gilliesbayvfd.ca * 604-414-5121

    Fire Restrictions: usual annual

    An Open Burning Ban within the Gillies Bay Fire Protection District is in effect from May 15 until October 15.

    During the ban:

    • No open burning allowed, including backyard burn barrels.
    • Campfires are permitted in Gillies Bay unless a total fire ban is implemented.
    • Other areas are covered by the Provincial Forestry Services and can be found on this page

    Gillies Bay Residents:

    If you hear the fire siren.
    Please shut off any open taps until the fire emergency has been rectified.

     

    For more information, see: