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Agricultural burning

Last updated on May 30, 2024

Outdoor agricultural burning is carried out to dispose of vegetative debris, clear the land for planting, and control pests, disease and weeds. These activities cause smoky conditions and elevated levels of particulate matter.

Outdoor agricultural burning is carried out to dispose of vegetative debris, clear the land for planting, and control pests, disease and weeds. These activities cause smoky conditions and increase levels of certain particles in the air which can be harmful to respiratory health.

If outdoor agriculture burning is essential on your property ensure that it is completed in a way to minimize the environmental impact and the impacts on neighbours. 

Alternatives to open burning

Alternatives to open burning, such as mulching and composting, can provide cost benefits to the farm in several ways while reducing emissions that contribute to air pollution and smog. These benefits include, but are not limited to:
 
Soil Health Improvement:
  • Applying compost returns organic matter and essential nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers
  • Improves moisture retention, reducing the need for frequent watering and lowering water costs
  • Reduces erosion by protection the soil surface from wind and water, preserving the topsoil and its nutrients
Waste Reduction:
  • Allows farmers to reduce waste disposal costs by repurposing crop residues and other organic waste materials
Pest and Weed Management:
  • Mulches act as natural barriers against weeds, reducing the need for herbicides and labour associated with weeding
  • Mulches can deter pests and reduce the movement of soil borne diseases, reducing reliance on pesticides and associated labour costs
Long-Term Sustainability:
  • Returning organic wastes through mulches and compost serves to protect and improve soil health. Healthier soils lead to improved plant growth and higher yields over time
  • Increasing soil organic matter improves moisture retention, helping to make farms more resilient to droughts and extreme weather
For more information on alternatives to open burning, please refer to the guide below.

Things to check before open burning

Before carrying out any burning operation, check:

  • To see if burning is allowed in your area
  • For any restrictions imposed by local government bylaws
  • For pollution concerns
  • For fire safety concerns

Best practices for open burning

Open burning to dispose of contaminated material, carcasses, and manure is prohibited in B.C. Burning this material can cause release of potentially harmful contaminants to your health and the health of others.

Alternatives to open burning

Check out the Recycling Council of British Columbia's directory of alternatives to open burning.

Legislation, regulations and bylaws

Municipal and provincial governments regulate open burning. Before carrying out any burning operation, check for:

Contact information

AgriService BC

Have a question?  Call or email and a staff person will assist you.

Phone:
1-888-221-7141

Email:
AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca