News release

Fire Ban Lifted Today

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

The Department of Natural Resources has lifted the ban on open fires in Nova Scotia effective today.

"With the recent rainfall amounts and the forecasted rain across the province, the fire hazard has dropped to a level where we feel comfortable lifting the open fire ban," said Natural Resources Minister Ernest Fage.

The significant rainfall of Sept. 22 and most of this week contributed to the department's decision. The Build Up Index, which measures the moisture in the woods and soil, has dropped from high and extreme to low and moderate over most of the province.

"I extend my thanks to the public for their support of both the open fire and travel bans over this long, warm summer," said Mr. Fage. "The public, volunteer fire departments and Natural Resources field staff were all factors in reducing the amount of damage to our forest resources this year."

The public can get burning permits for all open fires at the nearest district office of the Department of Natural Resources. Burning permits are required until Oct. 15.