Smoke and burning regulations and bylaws
Last updated: July 24, 2023
There are many regulations and bylaws that govern outdoor burning including what can be burned, and when and where outdoor burning can take place. Almost all outdoor burning requires authorization.
Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation
This regulation sets the rules about outdoor burning. It provides regulation about what can be burned, and when and where burning takes place. The regulation is meant to encourage the reduction and reuse of vegetative debris from large outdoor fires that are usually set for land-clearing, construction or forestry operations.
Solid Fuel Burning Domestic Appliance Regulation
This regulation sets standards for wood stoves and other wood burning appliances sold in B.C.
Local bylaws
Many local communities and regional districts have passed bylaws regulating open burning, campfires, beach fires, and backyard burning, as well as regulating the kinds of materials that may be burned.
- Inventory of Air Quality Bylaws in B.C. for Anti-Idling, Open Burning and Wood-Burning Appliances (2015) (PDF, 1MB)
- Review of Open Burning Bylaws on Vancouver Island (PDF)
