The 2022 forest fire season is set begin this weekend on the island portion of the province. Forest fire season is May 1 – September 30 for the island and May 15 – September 30 for Labrador.
A permit to burn is required during forest fire season to burn vegetation, wood and paper products. Permits can be obtained by contacting a provincial Forest Management Office during regular business hours.
A permit to burn is not required for backyard fires, recreational campfires and boil-ups on forest land, or within 300 metres of forest land, on condition the fire is prepared in accordance with strict Provincial Forest Fire Regulations. Individuals failing to comply with regulations may be subject to fines and penalties, including costs associated with fighting a forest fire.
In 2021, there were 84 fires burning a total of 338 hectares of forest land.
Anyone planning outdoor fires should first check the provincial online forest fire hazard rating maps to determine the level of forest fire risk. Maps can be viewed at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website and are updated daily.
In addition, individuals planning fires within a municipality should check with local fire officials to ensure any burning activity does not violate municipal by-laws related to outdoor fires.
To report a wildfire call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).
Quote
“We all have a role to play in protecting our precious forest resource from fire. As summer approaches and weather warms up, I encourage everyone frequenting our forest and wilderness areas to familiarize themselves with outdoor burning regulations and be vigilant when lighting fires in and around forest areas.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
-30-
Learn more
Public Reminders for Forest Fire Season
Provincial Forest Fire Regulations
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Media contact
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca