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A total ban on all fires in the Coastal Fire Centre is in place starting at noon on Thursday, July 16. (Image Credit: Errington Fire Department/Facebook)
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Fire ban in place for Vancouver Island with exceptions in the north

Jul 16, 2026 | 12:18 PM

NANAIMO — All types of burning on Vancouver Island is no longer permitted as of Thursday, July 16.

The partial category one, two, and three campfire prohibition in the Coastal Fire Centre (CFC) is in effect as of noon Thursday, covering all types of fires, ranging from campfires to backyard and industrial-sized open fires, including the City of Nanaimo and Oceanside communities.

The District of Lantzville has had a total fire ban in place since May 7.

Exceptions to the fire ban are in place for category one fires in the Campbell River, North Island Central Coast, Haida Gwaii, and Sunshine Coast Forest Districts, allowing fires no larger than half a metre by half a metre for recreational or First Nation ceremonial purposes.

The use of portable, propane or gas-powered cooking devices is still allowed in most areas, with some size restrictions.

A map showing all the fire prohibitions in the Coastal Fire Centre as of noon on Thursday, July 16.
A map showing all the fire prohibitions in the Coastal Fire Centre as of noon on Thursday, July 16. (Image Credit: Coastal Fire Centre)

The CFC said in a release the bans are being modified to reduce human-caused wildfires from starting due to changing weather patterns, as significant wildfire activity is expected this week due to the dry conditions, as well as lightning predicted for parts of B.C. on Thursday, including Nanaimo and parts of Oceanside.

“Warming and drying conditions are expected to continue this week, spreading further north and west across the province,” the wildfire service says in its latest update. “Rising temperatures and low precipitation will further dry out available fuels, increasing the likelihood of wildfire ignition.”

The Centre advises you to always check local fire prohibitions in your municipality if you’re unsure whether you are affected by the ban.

The ban will remain in place until Oct. 31, unless the order is rescinded earlier.

As of mid-day Thursday, there are no active wildfires on Vancouver Island.

Following the current unstable weather pattern, which has brought cooler temperatures and potential thundershowers, a clearing/warming trend is expected by early next week.

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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