The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador issued Regulation 55/25 under the authority of section 99 of the Forestry Act, enacting a province-wide fire ban due to elevated wildfire risk. The proclamation is a preventive measure aimed at reducing the likelihood of human-caused wildfires during periods of heightened fire danger. It restricts the setting of fires on forest land or within 300 metres of forest land throughout the province, with only limited and clearly defined exceptions. This regulation applies broadly to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

The ban specifically prohibits the setting of open fires in all designated areas unless strict criteria are met. The only permitted outdoor burning under the regulation is through the use of incinerator units, and even then, only when the fire weather index is not categorized as “very high” or “extreme.” Incinerators must meet several stringent safety standards. They must completely contain the fire, be screened to prevent the escape of sparks or other burning materials, and be located at least 15 metres away from any nearby woods, brush, or other flammable materials. Additionally, they must be situated on private property and maintained in good working order. If the fire weather index is “high,” an attendant must be on site while the incinerator is in use. Furthermore, all ash generated from incinerators must be fully extinguished before being discarded, and the ash must be placed on mineral soil that is also at least 15 metres from flammable materials.

The regulation includes several exemptions for activities considered low-risk. Fires used for heating within indoor wood stoves are not subject to the ban, provided that the chimneys or stovepipes are screened to prevent the release of sparks or burning debris. Outdoor cooking and heating devices that rely on controlled fuel sources such as gas, kerosene, alcohol, propane, or charcoal are also permitted under strict conditions. These devices must be operated at a distance of at least 3.5 metres from any combustible materials such as woods or brush. In the case of charcoal-burning units, all coals must be completely extinguished after use and disposed of in a way that does not pose a fire hazard.

Another narrow exemption is granted for the lighting of cigarettes, cigars, or pipes using matches or lighters. However, this exemption only applies if the person smoking is stationary at the time. The regulation specifically prohibits lighting smoking materials while in motion, a measure likely designed to prevent accidental ignition from dropped matches or embers in dry vegetation.

By introducing this fire ban, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is responding to increased wildfire risks associated with hot, dry conditions that often affect the province during the summer months. The focus of the regulation is to eliminate or tightly control any activity that could lead to unintentional fires in or near forested areas, which are particularly vulnerable. The detailed nature of the exceptions indicates a balance between public safety and practical considerations for residents and landowners.

Newfoundland and Labrador (55/2025) July 7, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.