Fire Ban Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fire ban? If so, where?

The interactive fire ban map provides a view of the current, active fire bans and restrictions in Saskatchewan. If a local authority such as a municipality, a park or the SPSA have implemented a fire ban, details of each authority’s restrictions put in place can be found within the interactive map.

Check with a local authority for their bylaws and fire ban details. You should also check with the campground that you’re staying in for any fire restrictions they may have implemented.

Why was a fire ban implemented?

The SPSA along with other Saskatchewan local authorities, such as a municipality, park or First Nation, have the authority to issue their own fire bans. A local authority may issue a fire ban when the risk of wildfires is deemed high and there is a need to reduce the likelihood of unwanted human-caused wildfires.

The SPSA can issue a fire ban within Crown land, provincial parks, recreational areas, and the NSAD (Northern Saskatchewan Administration District).

Each day, the SPSA assesses the implementation of a fire ban based on prevailing wildfire risks, ongoing wildfire occurrences, potential for new wildfires and long-range weather predictions.

Always check with the local authority or campgrounds before lighting any fire.

When will a fire ban be lifted?

It is up to the authority who issued the ban to rescind or modify the fire ban. A fire ban will be lifted or adjusted according to fluctuations in risk.

What is the area covered under the fire ban?

 A map with fire ban boundaries can be found in the interactive fire ban map.

What fines or penalties are in place for violating a fire ban?

As per The Wildfire Act, those in violation of a provincial fire ban order can face a fine of up to $500,000 per day (or part day) and/or imprisonment for up to three years.

They could also be liable for covering the costs of the resulting wildfire. If someone violates a municipal fire bylaw, the fine would be pursuant to the municipal bylaw.

 

How do I find out if there’s a fire ban in effect at a Saskatchewan provincial park or recreation site?

A list of provincial parks that have fire bans can be found online here.

 

Why is there still a fire ban when it’s been rainy and/or cold for days?

Although there may have been cooler temperatures and precipitation in some areas, the overall risk of wildfire can remain.

If there are other fires burning across the province, local personnel may be deployed to those fires, which limits the resources available in lower-risk areas.

The SPSA evaluates the fire risk each day and will consider rescinding or modifying the fire ban as the risk changes. It is up to each local authority that issued a fire ban to rescind or modify any fire ban that they have implemented.

Is Crown land closed to the public during a fire ban?

Crown land is not typically closed during a fire ban. Visitors and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution to prevent wildfires while on Crown land.

 

I have already been issued a burn permit. Can I still burn during a fire ban?

All burn permits issued by the Province have been cancelled. Check with your local municipality for the status of permits issued.

 

Who enforces the fire ban?

Enforcement for fire bans is up to the jurisdiction. For example, in an RM or municipality, it would be the bylaw officer. In parks, it would be conservation
officers or RCMP.

The SPSA would only be the enforcement lead on vacant crown land. Visitors and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution to prevent wildfires while on
Crown land.

 

Can I have a campfire?

No, a fire ban means that campfires are not permitted as they represent a significant fire risk. You can see the current fire bans/restrictions in place along with details of the restrictions on the interactive fire ban map.

Some provincial restrictions do not include areas that are within the boundaries of another local authority. Those areas are bound by local bylaws.

Always check with the local municipality, local authority, First Nation or campground before you light any campfire.

 

What types of outdoor cooking appliances are allowed during a fire ban?

Propane and gas appliances, along with liquid fueled stoves are permitted.

Grills using charcoal briquettes are also permitted.

Check with the local authority for their bylaws and fire ban details.

Are fireworks, firecrackers or sky lanterns allowed during a fire ban?

No, fireworks, firecrackers and sky lanterns are not allowed during a fire ban as they pose a significant fire risk.

Are there restrictions on smoking in the areas covered under the ban?

No, but visitors and residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution to help prevent wildfire. Properly dispose of smoking materials such as cigarettes.