Fire bans
When the weather is dry and winds are high, outdoor fires can quickly become dangerous, as fires can very quickly spread to nearby structures or property. To protect residents and properties from fire, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service may issue an open-air fire ban, which bans all outdoor fires under the Neighbourhood Liveability By-Law. Fire bans will last for 48 hours unless an extension is announced.
Activities not permitted
When a fire ban is in place, the following activities are not permitted, and violations are subject to a $500 fine:
- Open fires: existing permits will be suspended and no new permits will be issued for fires during a fire ban.
- Backyard fire pits
- Fireworks: existing permits will be suspended and no new permits will be issued for consumer (low hazard) fireworks or high hazard fireworks during a fire ban.
- Fire pits in City parks
- Solid fuel-burning appliances, including charcoal and wood-burning barbecues.
Activities permitted
During a fire ban, the following activities are permitted. Residents should use caution at all times.
- Use of backyard barbecues, fire tables and household smokers fueled by propane or natural gas, as they are contained and do not emit sparks or embers.
Call 911 if you see a fire
Report restricted activities during a fire ban
To help protect Winnipeggers from fire, residents are encouraged to contact 311 to report fire ban violations.
Open-air fire permits
The following activities require permits for use at any time:
- Open fires, except for neighbourhood liveability by-law compliant fire pits used on residential properties
- Fireworks
To obtain a permit, email fireinspections@winnipeg.ca or call 204-986-8200. Find more information about open air fire permits at Permits.
Provincial fire bans and restrictions