Campfires will again be permissible in the Coastal Fire Centre jurisdiction beginning Friday, thanks to a change in the weather pattern. (Image Credit: Dreamstime)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

fire reprieve

Campfires permissible across Coastal Fire Centre for May long weekend

May 13, 2026 | 8:55 AM

NANAIMO — Less than two weeks after implementing the earliest campfire ban in its history, the Coastal Fire Centre is cautiously scaling back prohibitions.

Beginning Friday, May 15 at 12 p.m., campfires measuring no more than half a metre by half a metre will be allowed across the entire region, including all of Vancouver Island, unless otherwise banned by local government regulations.

“Current and forecast conditions have since shifted, bringing cooler temperatures, improved humidity values, and an overall reduction in wildfire hazard throughout the Coastal Fire Centre,” an advisory from the Centre read.

Larger open fires remain prohibited, including the use of fireworks, binary exploding targets, burn barrels, and air curtain burners.

Those lighting up in the weeks ahead should do so responsibly.

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Campfires permissible across Coastal Fire Centre for May long weekend

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The Centre said fires should not be lit in windy conditions, should have a fuel break around them, and should be monitored at all times.

Once done, the fire should be extinguished fully until it is cool to the touch.

Municipal fire regulations remain in effect and supersede Coastal Fire Centre regulations.

Cooking fires are not permitted inside the City of Nanaimo or the City of Parksville.

“If you are in a municipality, be sure to check if local prohibitions are in place,” the Centre added in its statement. “If you are within a regional district or improvement district, this prohibition applies as well as any local prohibition issued by the local authority.”

Anyone who sees a wildfire, unattended campfire, or other open burning violation should contact the BC Wildfire Service at 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a mobile device.

Reports can also be made through the BC Wildfire mobile app.

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by NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Campfires permissible across Coastal Fire Centre for May long weekend

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