News release

Burn Restrictions Begin March 15

Lands and Forestry (July 2018 - Aug. 2021)

Spring is on the way and so is wildfire risk season. Nova Scotians are reminded provincial burn restrictions come into effect Sunday, March 15, and to check online before starting a fire.

The BurnSafe map will be updated each day at 2 p.m. to show if burning is permitted that day:

  • if a county is shown in green, burning is permitted from 2 p.m. through 8 a.m.
  • if it is shown in yellow, burning is permitted between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m.
  • if it is shown in red, burning is not allowed
  • the map will appear grey each day between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. to indicate burning is not permitted

The BurnSafe map shows provincial restrictions, which cover domestic brush burning and campfires. The restrictions do not apply to campfires in licensed private, municipal or provincial campgrounds with proper campfire facilities.

Restrictions are also available by recorded message by calling the toll-free phone line at 1-855-564-2876 (BURN).

Nova Scotians can contact their nearest Lands and Forestry office for more information on burning and burn restrictions. Wildfires can be reported by calling 1-800-565-2224 or 911.

Quick Facts:

  • burn restrictions are in place from March 15 to Oct. 15, when the risk of wildfires is highest
  • people should also check municipal by-laws before burning as their rules may vary
  • last year, provincial firefighters fought 143 wildfires in the spring and summer months
  • the province collects wind, rain, temperature and humidity data from more than 30 stations across the province each day to calculate fire risk and determine if burning is restricted
  • industrial burning requires a permit from Department of Lands and Forestry

Additional Resources:

BurnSafe map: https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe

For Department of Lands and Forestry local office contact information visit: https://novascotia.ca/natr/staffdir/offices.asp

Frequently asked questions: https://novascotia.ca/natr/forestprotection/wildfire/burnsafe/Q-As.asp

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NSLandsForestry