Region-Wide Campfire Ban Begins Friday Across Okanagan and Shuswap
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Many residents may be surprised that small campfires (max 0.5 m high by 0.5 m wide) had remained permitted until now.
July 7, 2026 - All municipalities and regional districts in the Kamloops Fire Centre, from Coldstream and Vernon to Kelowna and Salmon Arm, are issuing notices this week.
Small Category 1 campfires will be prohibited starting Friday, July 10 at noon
The step aligns every community with a single BC Wildfire Service order for the region. Category 2 and 3 open fires have been banned since early May.
What remains permitted
Gas, propane, or charcoal BBQs and outdoor stoves (CSA or ULC-rated devices with flame height under 15 cm)
The ban is expected to remain in place until mid-October or until conditions improve. Residents should check their specific municipality for any additional local bylaws.
Region-Wide Campfire Ban Begins Friday Across Okanagan and Shuswap