Temporary Ban on Recreational Off-Road Vehicles Hits B.C.

Recreational Off-Road Vehicle Ban On Crown Land Amid Wildfire Risk

Goal is to reduce risk of human-caused wildfires from hot exhaust systems and sparks

August 12 2026 - British Columbia has imposed a temporary ban on recreational off-road vehicles across large portions of the province, including the North Okanagan, due to elevated wildfire danger.

Effective at noon on August 10, 2026, the order prohibits the recreational use of all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles (including electric dirt bikes), and side-by-sides on Crown land in the Kamloops and Southeast Fire Centres, as well as parts of the Cariboo and Coastal centres.

At the time of writing, the restriction is scheduled to remain in place until noon on October 9, or until conditions improve and the ban is lifted.

Officials say the measure aims to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires from hot exhaust systems and sparks, while also limiting the number of people in remote areas where evacuation could be difficult. Fines for violations can reach $1,150, with potential liability for firefighting costs if a fire is started.

The ban does not apply to private land, national parks, or vehicles used for emergency response, agriculture, or commercial purposes. Licensed on-highway vehicles such as cars and trucks may still travel on Forest Service Roads, provided they remain on the established road surface.

The prohibition does not affect hiking, regular cycling, or legal e-bikes that meet provincial standards (functional pedals, power and speed limits).

Electric dirt bikes that lack pedals and exceed e-bike criteria are treated as motorcycles and remain banned for recreational use.

Residents and visitors are urged to check the BC Wildfire Service website or app for the latest updates before heading into the backcountry.

Temporary Ban on Recreational Off-Road Vehicles Hits B.C. Crown Land Amid Wildfire Risk