Nova Scotia bans hiking, vehicles in forests amid wildfire threat. Restrictions apply until Oct. 15 or until conditions improve.
Province Takes Preventive Action Against Wildfire Threat
In a decisive move to prevent wildfires, the Nova Scotia government has banned hiking, camping, fishing, and off-road vehicle use in wooded areas across provincial Crown land. The restrictions took effect Tuesday at 4 p.m. AT and will remain in place until October 15 or until conditions significantly improve.
Why the Restrictions Were Implemented
Persistent hot and dry weather has elevated wildfire risks across the province. Premier Tim Houston, addressing the public at a news conference on Tuesday, described the measures as a “small price to pay” to avoid a repeat of 2023, when wildfires destroyed more than 200 homes. With over 700 wildfires currently active across Canada and firefighting resources stretched thin, Houston emphasized the urgency: “I’m losing sleep about what’s happening.”
Where the Bans Apply — and Exceptions
While the ban affects trail systems and forested areas on Crown land, front-country campgrounds and day-use areas remain accessible. Beaches and parks not connected to wooded trails are still open. However, any trails through the woods, including those in Kejimkujik National Park and other federally protected sites, are now off-limits. A full fire ban is also in effect at Kejimkujik.
Affected Parks Canada sites include:
- All trails and backcountry camping at Kejimkujik National Park
- Kejimkujik Seaside trails
- York Redoubt, Fort McNab, and Melanson Settlement National Historic Sites
Sites such as Halifax Citadel, Georges Island, Fort Anne, and Grand-Pré remain open, with safety measures in place.
City and Industry Compliance
The Halifax Regional Municipality also imposed closures on fully wooded parklands, while green spaces and sports fields remain available. City crews are currently posting signage, but officials stress that the public must comply regardless of posted warnings.
In sectors like forestry and mining, operations will now require permits and must be scheduled at night to lower fire risk.
How Landowners and the Public Are Affected
Private landowners are urged to voluntarily adopt the same restrictions. While they are not legally obligated, any guests on private land caught violating the ban could face fines of up to $25,000. Officials are asking Nova Scotians to err on the side of caution and to refrain from risky activities during this critical time.
“If you’re unsure whether the activity you’d like to do is permitted or not, best practice is to not do it,” said Scott Tingley, Manager of Forest Protection at the Department of Natural Resources.
Response from the Community
Despite the inconvenience, most Nova Scotians appear to be supportive. Barry Barnet, Executive Director of the All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Nova Scotia, noted that upcoming ATV events will be postponed. “They’re rallies and jamborees — all things that can occur later in the year,” he said.
What Comes Next
The fire ban, along with other restrictions, will remain in effect until October 15 unless weather conditions allow for an earlier lift. Officials have confirmed that approximately 100 small wildfires have already been extinguished this season. However, Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton warned, “That could change in a heartbeat.”
As Nova Scotia braces for continued dry conditions, provincial leaders and emergency officials are urging residents to act with care and common sense to avoid potential disaster.
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