Province-Wide Fire Ban Implemented Across Newfoundland and Labrador

A province-wide fire ban has been put in place across Newfoundland and Labrador due to elevated wildfire risk and ongoing wildfire activity in Labrador.

The Provincial Government announced that the ban took effect immediately and will remain in place until July 17, 2026.

As a result of the ban, all permits to burn grass, brush and other materials have been cancelled. Fireworks and sky lanterns are also prohibited throughout the province.

Officials said wood-fueled fires are not permitted on forest land, within 300 metres of forest land, or on land containing flammable vegetation during the ban. Forest land includes areas where natural vegetation grows, such as forests, yards, fields, parks, trails, greenbelts, bogs and barrens.

Gas- and propane-fueled appliances, including barbecues, may continue to be used if operated safely and kept away from flammable materials. Enclosed smoker units and structures used for food preservation are also permitted.

The government reminded residents travelling through forested areas on all-terrain or other motorized vehicles that vehicles must be equipped with a muffler and spark-arresting device to prevent sparks from escaping. Operators are also required to carry a fire extinguisher containing at least 225 grams of ABC-class fire retardant.

The use of gas, kerosene, alcohol, propane or charcoal-burning units is allowed only when they are operated at least 3.5 metres from trees, brush or other combustible materials. Anyone using such equipment in grassy or wooded areas must also carry a fire extinguisher.

Officials noted that any coals used for barbecuing or other approved burning devices must be fully extinguished before disposal.

The Provincial Government said fire bans may be implemented on a regional or province-wide basis during periods of heightened wildfire danger to help protect people, communities and natural resources, while ensuring firefighting resources remain available for active wildfires and high-risk areas.