A fire ban is now in effect for the Town of Conception Bay South, and under provincial regulations no open fires are permitted across the Conception Bay region — including Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador — when the Fire Weather Index reaches the Very High or Extreme level. Effective immediately on July 8, 2026, the ban in Conception Bay South prohibits all open fires, fireworks, and recreational fires such as backyard fires, fire pits, campfires, and chimineas. Charcoal barbecues are also banned, though propane appliances are still allowed.
The Conception Bay South Fire Department made the announcement with the provincial fire index map showing high to very high risk levels for the area. The Town of Conception Bay South reminds residents to check for updates before lighting any outdoor fire, even with a permit. The Provincial Fire Hazard Map is updated daily using data from weather stations that track temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall and moisture levels. When the map shows orange for very high or red for extreme, no open fires are allowed.
This local ban comes as Labrador battles 22 active wildfires, with the Walsh River fire about 12 kilometres from Labrador City listed as out of control. The Burin Peninsula is also at extreme fire risk. A separate fire ban for all of Labrador remains in effect until at least July 13, 2026.
Newfoundland and Labrador recently overhauled its Forestry Act for the first time in 35 years, with changes taking effect on June 3, 2026. The new rules include stiffer penalties: a $50,000 fine for discharging fireworks when the fire weather index is high or above, up to $150,000 for recklessly starting a forest fire, and up to $500,000 or two years in prison for deliberately setting one. The province has also invested $2.26 million in FireSmart programs across 58 communities and repaired a fifth water bomber to prepare for the wildfire season.
Residents are urged to avoid any outdoor burning and to report any signs of fire immediately. For more details on the ban, people can visit the provincial wildfire management website or the Town of Conception Bay South’s fire ban page.
