Yard Waste Disposal Days Return in May as Sooke Ramps Up Wildfire Preparedness Efforts

As communities across British Columbia prepare for another wildfire season, Sooke is taking meaningful steps to reduce risk and build resilience—starting right at home.

This May, the District of Sooke is bringing back its popular free FireSmart yard waste disposal days. On Saturdays throughout the month, excluding the May long weekend, residents can drop off yard waste at no charge between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the District of Sooke Parks Yard on Kaltasin Road. Please note that commercial loads are not permitted.

The initiative supports residents in taking practical action to reduce wildfire hazards. Removing dry brush, leaves, and overgrown vegetation helps eliminate fuel that can contribute to the spread and intensity of fires.

Invasive plant material accepted at yard waste drop-off includes Scotch and Gorse broom, English ivy, English holly, and Himalayan blackberry. Residents are kindly asked to separate these materials from other yard waste at drop-off.

These efforts align with Community Wildfire Resilience Day on May 2, which will be marked locally with a community stewardship event at John Phillips Memorial Park from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in collaboration with the Friends of Sooke Parks Society. Residents are invited to come out, connect with neighbours, and take part in hands-on activities that support a safer, more resilient landscape.

Incorporating FireSmart practices at home is another key step in wildfire preparedness. Residents are encouraged to:

• Remove dead plants, branches, and leaves from around the home
• Maintain a non-combustible zone within 1.5 metres of structures
• Store firewood and combustible materials away from buildings
• Clean roofs and gutters regularly

Sooke Fire Rescue is available to support residents with free home and property assessments, offering personalized recommendations to reduce wildfire risk.

Wildfire resilience is built through shared effort. By participating in yard clean-up, attending community events, and adopting FireSmart practices, Sooke residents can help protect their homes, neighbours, and the natural environment.

The District of Sooke acknowledges funding support from partners, including the UBCM FireSmart Program and the Province of British Columbia.

For more information on FireSmart and the District's Emergency Planning and Preparedness Program, please visit sooke.ca/EPP.