There are important rules and regulations to follow for campfires to burn piles. Before starting any fire on your property, check to see that it complies with our municipal bylaws and provincial regulations. As always, NO OUTDOOR FIRES ARE PERMITTED DURING A FIRE BAN. 

OUTDOOR FIREPLACES

Outdoor fireplaces are permitted between March 15 and November 1 if they are:

• contained in an approved appliance,
• do not produce noxious smoke,
• located no closer than 3 metres from neighbouring properties.

Outdoor fires are not permitted during a fire ban.

For more information, download our Outdoor Burning FAQ.

GARDEN REFUSE AND AGRICULTURAL CLEARING

Permits are required for garden refuse and agricultural clearing fires.

The burning periods for garden refuse and agricultural clearing fires are March 15th – April 5th and October 15th – November 5th.

Town of Qualicum Beach, Outdoor Burning Bylaw and Permits

Regional wildfire risk ratings are based on the BC Wildfire Service assessment of the potential for ignition, spread and intensity based on hourly weather observations.

BC Wildfire Service, Fire Danger Rating

Fire bans and prohibitions are managed by the BC Wildfire Service based on regional wildfire risk assessments.

For up-to-date information on regional fire bans and restrictions, visit the BC Wildfire website:

BC Wildfire Service, Coastal Fire Centre Bans

Campfires are not permitted at any time along the waterfront in Qualicum Beach. The area is protected as part of the Parksville-Qualicum Beach Wildlife Management Area.

Wildlife Management Area Use and Access Regulation

Certain outdoor activities that may create an increased risk of igniting wildfires may be prohibited or restricted between March 1 to November 1 based on regional fire danger ratings.

This includes, but is not limited to, activities such as: the use of power tools and industrial equipment.

BC Wildfire Services, High Risk Activities

Qualicum Beach is in a “high smoke sensitivity zone” and any outdoor burning requires following the Venting Index.

The Venting Index reflects the potential of the atmosphere to disperse smoke and other pollutants. “Good” means the smoke is more likely to disperse; “Poor” indicates the pollution is more likely to hang or drop to lower elevations.

Ventilation Index Interactive Map

Open Burning Control Factsheet