Campfires, Open Burning and Venting

Depending on the type of fire, you may require a permit (scroll further to see 'Open Burning Types'). There are two ways to apply for a burning permit. You can apply online for a Class B permit through our website, or download a PDF, complete the form, and send it to the RDNO for review.  

You must apply for a permit each season. 

Online:  Online Class 'B' Open Burning Permit Application

Downloadable PDF: Class 'A' Open Burning Permit Application

                                     Class 'B' Open Burning Permit Application

Before you light a fire, be aware that open burning in Electoral Area' 'B' & 'C' is regulated by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) bylaw 2514.  

All Electoral Areas in the North Okanagan are regulated by the Province of BC through the Kamloops Fire Centre.  

You are encouraged to check with the provincial authorities to ensure there are no restrictions in place. 

• Permit not required.

• Does not exceed 0.5 metres in width, length or height.

• For the purpose of cooking food or to provide heat/lights associated with camping or recreation.

• Between the hours of 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. (midnight).

• Permit Required (At a Cost).

• Inspection Services Fees apply.

• Minimum of at least 2.5 acres.

• Does not exceed 10 metres in diameter. 

• For the purpose of clearing vegetation to prepare land for non-farming use (e.g. farmland to residential).

• Maximum of three (3) consecutive days.

• Permit Required (Free).

• No fees apply.

• Minimum of at least 2.5 acres.

• Does not exceed 3 metres in diameter and 2 metres in height.

• For the purpose of clearing vegetation for different use ie: Fire Smart strategies.

• Maximum of twelve (12) hours.

• Permit Required (At a Cost).

• Inspection Services Fees apply.

• Minimum of at lease 2.5 acres.

• For clearing vegetation for non-farming use with the use of an air curtain incinerator or other approved forced air device, or

• For farm practices as defined in Right to Farm Regulations, or

• For forest, pest or disease control, or

• To reduce fire hazard areas, or

• For burning on days other then what is permitted under bylaw 2514, subject to review and approval by RDNO.

All open burns, with the exception of a small confined fire or campfire, require a permit.  

Find Class 'A' Permit Application form here         Find a Class 'B' Permit Application form here

NOTE: Class 'A' burns and Special Open burns may require inspection services at an additional fee.

Regulated by BC Wildfire

Includes: propane campfires, camp stove fueled by gas or briquette, gas and briquette barbecues, pizza ovens fueled with gas or briquette.

Does not include: Wood-burning fire pits or chimineas, wood-fuelled stoves or smokers, anything that produces a large/open flame or spark. 

Outdoor stoves are often allowed even during campfire bans.  Keep informed of current bans and restrictions through BC Wildfire. 

As defined in the Fireworks Act of BC

These are classified as high-risk activities during the summer when vegetation is extremely dry.  Check BC Wildfire for current bans and restrictions on activities.

• Air curtain burners

• Carbonizers

• Binary exploding targets

• Burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description 

• Controlled air incinerators

Sparks, embers and high heat are difficult to fully control once operating.  Check BC Wildfire for current bans and restrictions on equipment.

A prescribed burn is commonly used to maintain a pasture or field.

This type of burn is regulated by the BC Wildfire Act.  Under this act a grass burn is split into two categories; under .5 acre (category 2) and over .5 acre (category 3).  A category 3 fire requires a burn registration number by calling 1-888-797-1717.   

Know more by visiting BC Wildfire.

• Category 1 Open Fire Burn (campfire)
• Category 2 Open Fire Burn
• Category 3 Open Fire Burn
• Farmers and Ranchers Fact Sheet

The province is broken into three (3) smoke sensitivity zones.  These zones are part of the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation (OBSCR), which governs how and when open burning can occur to minimise the impact of smoke on people and the environment.  

• High: Has the strictest rules for open burning, designed to protect densely populated areas. 
• Medium: Has moderate restrictions and covers rural locations, small communities, and transportation corridors.
• Low: Has the least restrictive rules for open burning for areas far from communities. 

Each zone has different requirements for burning duration, ventilation index conditions, seasonal restrictions, and setbacks from residences and water bodies.  

The North Okanagan is positioned within either a medium or high smoke sensitivity zone, and is within the "Okanagan" Venting Index Zone.  Check out the 'Burning in a High Smoke Sensitivity Zone' fact sheet. 

As an alternative to burning, you could compost at home, utilize a wood chipper or take your yard and garden waste (year-round, free of charge) to one of the Regional District of North Okanagan’s Diversion and Disposal Facilities:

• Armstrong/Spallumcheen Diversion & Disposal Facility (ASDDF), 3367 Powerhouse Road
• Greater Vernon Diversion & Disposal Facility (GVDDF), 120 Birnie Road
• Kingfisher Transfer Station, 150 Beattie Road
• Lumby Diversion & Disposal Facility (LDDF), 221 Trinity Valley Road

For more information, visit the Diversion and Disposal Facilities (DDF) Page. 

The Venting Index has a morning, afternoon, and next-day forecast. Check for the best time.