Burning Regulations

• Recreational fires (small backyard fires for warmth or enjoyment)
• Cooking fires (used for food preparation)

These fires must:

• Use clean, dry firewood only
• Be contained and kept small
• Be supervised at all times
• Have water or extinguishing tools readily available

Backyard burning is only allowed when all of the following conditions are met:

• Between November 1 and April 30
• Ventilation index is rated GOOD
• No municipal or provincial fire ban is in place
• Weather conditions are safe (no high winds or extreme dryness)

Always check current conditions before lighting a fire.

The following are prohibited at all times:

• Burning garbage, plastics, treated wood, or construction materials
• Fires that create excessive smoke or nuisance
• Burning during a fire ban or poor ventilation conditions

Burning is not always the best option for managing yard waste. Residents are encouraged to consider safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives:

• Composting leaves and garden material
• Chipping or mulching branches for reuse on your property
• Curbside or depot disposal options from local businesses

The District of Sooke also offers a free yard waste disposal program during the month of May, providing a convenient way to dispose of yard debris without burning. Drop off is available at the Sooke Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Road.

Some types of open burning may require a permit from Sooke Fire Rescue, including:

• Larger fires
• Land clearing or yard debris burning beyond basic residential use

Contact the Fire Rescue Service to obtain a permit, with an approved fire safety plan, before burning.

Yes, during the permitted season (November 1 to April 30), when ventilation is GOOD and conditions are safe. Materials must be clean, dry, and untreated.

Under Fire Protection Services Bylaw No. 292, open burning must also meet minimum setback distances. Fires must be located:

• At least 15 metres from any building, structure, or property line
• With adequate clearance from trees, fences, and other combustible materials

Fires must be supervised at all times, with water or other extinguishing tools readily available.

Small recreational and cooking fires do not require a permit when they meet all bylaw conditions.

Under Fire Protection Services Bylaw No. 292, open burning beyond small recreational fires—including yard waste burning, land clearing, or larger fires—requires a permit issued by Sooke Fire Rescue. These requirements are outlined in the bylaw’s Open Burning Permit provisions.

As part of the permit process, applicants may be required to provide a fire safety plan, which typically includes:

• The location and size of the proposed fire
• Required setbacks from buildings, property lines, and combustible materials
• On-site supervision and staffing
• Available fire suppression equipment (e.g., water supply, hoses, tools)
• Weather and ventilation conditions under which burning will occur
• Procedures for fully extinguishing the fire
• Measures to prevent smoke nuisance or fire spread

Contact Sooke Fire Rescue before burning to confirm permit requirements and ensure compliance.

Ventilation refers to how well smoke can disperse in the air. Burning is only allowed when the ventilation index is rated GOOD to minimize smoke impacts on neighbours.

Typically no. Backyard burning is generally restricted outside the November–April season, and summer fire bans are common due to wildfire risk.

The District of Sooke follows the BC Wildfire Service – Coastal Fire Centre regulations regarding restrictions and prohibitions on campfires. 

Before lighting any fire, including a campfire, you must check current restrictions. When a ban is in place, all open burning and campfires are prohibited, regardless of size or purpose.

No. Beach fires are not permitted in the District of Sooke.

If there is an immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency concerns, report the issue to the District using the online bylaw reporting tool, available 24/7.