Fire Ban Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will a fire ban be lifted?

When the SPSA implements a fire ban, it is evaluated each day against current wildfire hazards, current wildfire activity, the risk of new wildfires and a long-term weather forecast.
The fire ban will be rescinded or modified as the risk changes.
It is up to each municipality to rescind or modify a fire ban that has been issued at a local level.

2. Why was a fire ban implemented?

The SPSA has the authority to issue a fire ban when the risk of wildfires is deemed to be high and there is a need to reduce the likelihood of unwanted human-caused wildfires.
Local rural and urban municipalities also have the authority to issue their own fire bans. Always check with local municipalities, government authorities and local campgrounds before lighting any fire.

3. Which areas are normally covered under a fire ban?

The SPSA can issue a fire ban within Crown land, provincial parks, recreational areas, etc.
Check with local governments for their bylaws and fire ban status. You should also check with the campground that you’re staying in for any fire restrictions they may have implemented.
You can see a list of areas on our Current Fire Ban Map (Interactive).

4. How can I find out if a Saskatchewan provincial park or recreation site has a fire ban?

Occasionally due to extreme fire hazards, the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport will issue restrictions on open fires in provincial parks and recreation sites. A list of provincial parks that have fire bans can be found here.

5. It has been raining and/or cold for days. Why is there still a fire ban?

Although there may have been cooler temperatures and precipitation in some areas, the overall risk of wildfire remains.
If there are other fires burning across the province, local personnel may be deployed to those fires, which limits the resources available in lower-risk areas.
The SPSA evaluates the risk each day and will consider rescinding or modifying the fire ban as the risk changes.
It is up to each rural or urban municipality to rescind or modify any fire ban that they have implemented.

6. What fines / penalties are in place for violating a fire ban order?

As per The Wildfire Act, those in violation of a provincial fire ban order can face a fine of up to $500,000 per day (or part day) and/or imprisonment for up to three years. They could also be liable for covering the costs of the resulting wildfire.
If someone violates a municipal fire bylaw, the fine would be pursuant to the municipal bylaw.

7. Is Crown land closed to the public during a fire ban?

Crown land is not typically closed during a fire ban. Visitors and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution to prevent wildfires while on Crown land.

8. During a fire ban, where can I have a campfire?

You can see the current fire bans on the interactive map. Restrictions do not include areas that are within the boundaries of local government. Those areas are bound by local bylaws.
Always check with local municipalities, government authorities and local campgrounds before lighting any fire.

9. Can I have a campfire on my own personal, privately owned property?

You cannot have a campfire if your municipality has implemented a fire ban.
Check with your local municipality or government official, or view the interactive fire ban map, to find out if a fire ban has been implemented in your area.

10. What types of stoves / ovens are allowed during a fire ban?

Propane and gas appliances and liquid fueled stoves are permitted.
Check with local governments for their bylaws and fire ban status. You should also check with the campground that you’re staying in for any fire restrictions they may have implemented.

11. What types of grills are allowed during a fire ban?

Grills using charcoal briquettes are permitted.
Check with local governments for their bylaws and fire ban status. You should also check with the campground that you’re staying in for any fire restrictions they may have implemented.

12. Are fireworks, firecrackers or sky lanterns allowed during a fire ban?

No, fireworks, firecrackers and sky lanterns are not allowed during a fire ban as they represent a significant fire risk.

13. Are there restrictions on smoking in the areas covered under the ban?

No, but visitors and residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution to help prevent wildfire.

14. I have already been issued a burn permit. Can I still burn during a fire ban?

All burn permits issued by the Province have been cancelled. Check with your local municipality for the status of permits issued.