Residents in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, are reminded that all spring outdoor burning is cancelled until further notice. While recent flood risks from a mid-March storm have subsided, local officials are keeping restrictions in place to ensure community safety.
The Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that the spring burning season, which typically runs from March 1 to May 31, is suspended. No burning permits are being issued at this time. Under the local Burning Regulation Bylaw No. 2688, open wood burning is strictly prohibited in urban areas at all times. This rule includes the use of outdoor fireplaces and cooking pits, though residents may still use propane or natural gas barbecues.
These restrictions remain in effect as the community recovers from a significant weather event earlier this month. Beginning March 15, 2026, a prolonged atmospheric river brought between 40 and 300 millimetres of rain to the South Coast. Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor noted the storm was unusual for March, as a warm air mass from Hawaii carried an exceptionally high amount of moisture to the region.
During the peak of the storm, the BC River Forecast Centre issued flood watches and high streamflow advisories for the South Coast and the Fraser Valley, which forced the city to closely monitor water levels in the Pitt, Fraser, and Alouette rivers. While those advisories were downgraded and eventually ended by March 22, 2026, there are currently no active flood warnings for the area as of March 31.
Residents with questions regarding fire safety or local regulations can contact the fire department for non-emergency assistance at 604-465-2401. Further information on current burning status and local burning regulations can be found on the city website.
