Residents in Colwood, British Columbia, should take note of updated fire regulations as the BC Wildfire Service prepares for the start of the wildfire season this Victoria Day long weekend. While the provincial campfire ban for the Coastal Fire Centre is being lifted on Friday, May 15, 2026, at noon, more restrictive rules remain in place for the West Shore region.
Although the province is easing some rules, the City of Colwood maintains strict local regulations regarding outdoor fire use. Under the city’s outdoor burning rules, all open burning, including beach fires and campfires, is prohibited at all times. The Colwood Fire Department, which has served the community since 1946, enforces these municipal bylaws regardless of provincial adjustments.
Across the province, the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness reported that there are 36 active wildfires as of May 14, 2026, with nine of those fires currently out of control. Officials are noting that the region has experienced below-average precipitation and low winter snowpack levels, which has increased concerns regarding drought and water shortages for Vancouver Island throughout the coming summer.
While the provincial campfire prohibition is ending, Category 2 and 3 open fires—which typically include larger piles of yard waste or industrial burning—remain prohibited across the entire Coastal Fire Centre. Residents are urged to exercise caution and remain aware of local conditions. Official sources emphasize that most wildfires at this time of year are preventable, and everyone is asked to stay informed on current wildfire activity and local weather conditions before planning any outdoor activities.
