A ban on open burning will come into effect across the Prince George Fire Centre effective noon on Thursday.
"This prohibition is being implemented due to current weather conditions and the long-range forecast for the region," the B.C. Wildfire Service said in a statement.
Campfires will still be allowed provided they're no larger than half-metre high by a half-metre wide. CSA-approved or ULC-approved cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes will also be exempted.
Specifically-prohibited activities include the burning of any waste, slash or other materials, stubble or grass fires of any size over any area, the use of burning barrels or burning cages of any size or description and the use of sky lanterns, tiki torches or fireworks.
The prohibition applies to all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department.
It will remain in effect until Sept. 30 or until the public is otherwise notified and all open burning must be extinguished by the deadline on Thursday.
Penalties for contravening the prohibition can include a violation ticket for $1,150, an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, a fine of up to $100,000 and one year in jail.
If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca.
