Monday April 15th marks the beginning of forest fire season in the province, which means strict rules on where, how and what you can burn.
Forest fire season lasts throughout the summer, ending October 31st.
Don’t let the snow fool you – a forest fire can still start. The 2019 forest-fire season in New Brunswick begins April 15. Our forests are important. Be aware and stay vigilant. pic.twitter.com/2ZZUuEy2Hb
— Government of NB (@Gov_NB) April 12, 2019
During fire season, people lighting fires that are under three metres, like a camp fire, should call the toll-free burn line to see if burning is allowed in that area. These smaller fires are typically called Category 1.
Larger fires—Category 2, 3, and 4— require a written permit, which are available by application through the Department of Energy and Resource Development.
Burning grass is considered a Category 4 fire. People who deem it necessary to burn grass must submit a written burn plan to the department, have an inspection beforehand, and then receive a written permit.
During fire season, anyone who conducts an industrial operation on forest land must possess a valid work permit that specifies the required fire equipment and the location of the operation.
These permits can be obtained at no cost at any Department of Energy and Resource Development office.
Inspections will be done throughout the season to ensure safety and compliance.
Under the province’s Forest Fires Act, anyone who lights a fire on forest land is responsible for that fire.
If the fire gets out of control, you may be liable for the cost of damages, and could face criminal charges for violating burning regulations.
In 2018, 285 fires burned 311 hectares of forest land in New Brunswick.
More information, including the Forest Fire Weather Index and the Provincial Forest Fire Summary, is available online.
