District of Sooke Lifts Campfire Ban Effective 12 p.m. (noon) on September 29, 2026

The District of Sooke will lift its campfire prohibition effective 12 p.m. (noon) on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, as cooler seasonal conditions and increased rainfall have reduced local wildfire risk. 

The decision follows several weeks of continued monitoring after the Coastal Fire Centre lifted its regional Category 1 campfire prohibition earlier this month. At that time, local conditions in Sooke remained too dry to safely follow suit, and the District maintained its prohibition as a precaution. 

Conditions have since improved, with cooler temperatures, increased moisture and further rainfall in the forecast. Recent progress on neighbouring wildfires also reflects the changing conditions. The Mount Jack wildfire in the Sooke Hills is now classified as being held, while the Pat Phillips Creek wildfire near Jordan River is under control. 

“We know the extended campfire prohibition required some extra patience from residents and visitors, particularly after restrictions were lifted elsewhere in the region,” said Deputy Fire Chief Chris McCrea. “Thank you to everyone for your understanding and cooperation. With the cooler weather, additional moisture and improving conditions we are seeing locally and on nearby wildfires, we are comfortable allowing small recreational campfires again. We still ask everyone to use good judgment and make fire safety part of every campfire.”  

Campfires permitted; backyard burning remains closed 

The change applies to small recreational campfires. Backyard burning and the burning of yard and garden debris remain prohibited until the District’s backyard burning season opens November 1, subject to ventilation and other requirements. 

Residents completing fall yard clean-up are encouraged to make use of the District’s free yard waste drop-off at the Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Road. Drop-off will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, October 3, 17, 24 and 31. The seasonal service supports residents in safely removing leaves, branches and other vegetation from around their homes while contributing to FireSmart preparedness. 

Anyone having a campfire is reminded to: 

• Keep the fire at least 6 metres (20 feet) from all property lines and buildings.
• Keep the fire well clear of grass, shrubs, wood, fences and other combustible materials.
• Use only clean, dry firewood.
• Avoid having a fire during windy conditions.
• Keep water or appropriate extinguishing tools immediately available.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Fully extinguish the fire before leaving, ensuring the ashes and fire bed are cool to the touch. 

“Recent wildfires close to home are a good reminder that conditions can change quickly,” added McCrea. “The restriction may be lifting, but the responsibility to use fire safely continues. A little preparation and attention can prevent a campfire from becoming an emergency.”  

Residents and visitors should continue to check current conditions and restrictions before lighting a fire, particularly when travelling outside the District of Sooke, as restrictions may differ between jurisdictions. 

To report a fire that poses an immediate threat to life or property, call 9-1-1. For current provincial wildfire information, visit the BC Wildfire Service website.