Fire bans, campfire bans, provincial restrictions, barbecue rules—it can all get a bit confusing, especially when different places seem to have different rules at different times. You might find yourself checking the news or scrolling on your phone trying to figure out what’s allowed and what’s not.

The good news is that in the City of Richmond, it’s actually very straightforward.

There is always a fire ban in place, year-round, so there’s no need to guess or keep up with changing conditions. No matter what you may see or hear elsewhere, open fires are simply not allowed here at any time. Keeping it this simple helps protect our community and makes it easy for everyone to know exactly where they stand.

Now, let’s get into the details.

Every year, we hear questions about burning bylaws, fire bans, cooking in parks, and which parks are managed by the City of Richmond versus the Province. To help clear things up, here’s a quick guide to what’s allowed and what isn’t.

Only the Fire Chief for the City of Richmond, or their designate, can issue a fire ban within the city. If the Province announces a campfire or burning ban, that restriction applies only to provincial parks located within Richmond’s boundaries. At this time, Iona Beach is the only park in Richmond that follows these provincial rules.

McDonald Beach Park is owned and operated by the City of Richmond, and all other parks and walkways in the city follow Richmond’s own bylaws. These municipal rules prohibit open burning, barbecues, and campfires at any time in city parks unless you have a specific permit or are using a designated area that is clearly marked for such use.

Campfire bans are issued by the Province and apply specifically to provincial campgrounds. These bans rarely affect Richmond’s city parks, because our bylaws already prohibit open burning, barbecues, and campfires under normal circumstances.

The bottom line for Richmond parks is simple: open burning is never allowed at any time without a specific permit, and barbecues can only be used at City‑designated BBQ locations.

If you’re planning to bring your own propane BBQ, you’re welcome to use it at the following Richmond parks, where City‑designated BBQ areas are available:

• Garry Point Park
• King George / Cambie Community Park
• McDonald Beach Park
  
  For more information, contact us anytime: HERE