Open burning & fires — North Cowichan, British Columbia
Can I have a backyard fire? Do I need a burn permit?
In the District Municipality of North Cowichan, British Columbia, open burning & fires rules are set by Fire Protection Bylaw No. 3841, 2021 (consolidated to Sept 14, 2026) - Part 9 Open Burning, verified 2026-10-26. Fines: not exceeding $50,000.00. A permit is required. Permit issuer: Fire Chief or their delegate.
Fire Protection Bylaw No. 3841, 2021 (consolidated to Sept 14, 2026) - Part 9 Open Burning
adopted bylaw
permit required
yes
s. 62; s. 65
permit issuer
Fire Chief or their delegate
s. 63
allowed conditions
Ventilation Index 'good'; permit; outside Urban Containment Boundary or >2 acres inside; daylight; one hand-piled fire <2m high/wide; untreated wood/brush; shovel/rake/hose; Mar 15-Apr 15 or Sep 15-Nov 30.
s. 64; s. 65
fine range
not exceeding $50,000.00
s. 82
scout note
Part 9 (ss.62-69): Open Burning Permit from Fire Chief; only when Ventilation Index good; outside Urban Containment Boundary or lots over 2 acres; Mar 15-Apr 15 and Sep 15-Nov 30; one hand-piled fire under 2 m, daylight only. No permit for compliant recreational fire pits (s.69, 68.1).
Open Burning & Campfires (North Cowichan fire services page)
Municipal Open Burning and Campfires page under Fire Services; current burning status and fire ban notices.