News release

Burning Permits Now Required

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Fire season officially began in some parts of the province on April 1 and in the remaining areas on April 15. The season will end Oct. 15. As a result, provincial permits for burning brush are now required.

In several areas of the province, municipalities require an additional municipal permit. Property owners, particularly residents of Halifax Regional Municipality, must check with their municipal offices.

Fire season is taken seriously by the Department of Natural Resources for the safety and protection of the forest. The dates for the season are based on legislation and are related to weather patterns, forest conditions, and typical fire activity. During early spring, before our forests green up, 50 per cent of fires take place, putting our forests, vegetation and wildlife at risk. During this time, weather can be deceiving as rain and cool temperatures can quickly change and dry out woodlands within a few days.

"Permits enable us to ensure burning is carried out in a responsible and controlled manner, yet enable land owners to clean up their properties and reduce the fire hazard," said Natural Resources Minister Richard Hurlburt. "Under provincial regulations, permits are required during fire season, making it safer for all Nova Scotians at a time when the risk of forest fire is greatest."

Last year, Nova Scotia had 272 forest fires which burned 1257 hectares (3106 acres). The cost to the Nova Scotia taxpayer was $818,500.