Open Burning / Halloween Event
Due to the extreme fire risk posed by dry weather conditions, Central Saanich delayed any open burning until weather conditions improved. The Category 2 and 3 fire ban will end in the Coastal Fire Centre starting at noon on Oct. 28. However, burning in Central Saanich will not be permitted until November 3, 2022 and unfortunately The Central Saanich Fire Department will not be issuing permits for Halloween Fireworks or Bonfires this year.
Open Burning
Open Burning and Recreational Fires will be permitted starting November 3, 2022. Our online application portal will be accessible starting November 1. Please remember to check the venting index prior to burning.
Halloween Fireworks & Bonfire
The Halloween celebration at Centennial Park will be postponed for later this year or early 2023 and there will be no fireworks or bonfire permits issued this year.
This suspension was extended to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety due to above-normal drought conditions. Drought conditions can be attributed to warmer seasonal temperatures and below normal rainfall. Many areas of B.C. have set temperature records in recent weeks, and accumulated rainfall amounts through September was significantly below normal levels.
At this time, even with some rain in the forecast before Halloween, the fire risk remains too high for open flames. While this is hugely disappointing for the community, the Fire Department intends to reschedule the fireworks and bonfire celebration soon,” Chief Mount noted. The risk to our community is too great, and we ask all citizens to act responsibly, and spread the message about why it’s imperative to adjust celebrations this year.
Central Saanich’s famous Halloween fireworks display is thanks to a dedicated effort by the Fire Department volunteers, and was spearheaded by long-time firefighter Forrest Owens, who recently passed away. Going forward, the fireworks show will be renamed the Forrest Owens Memorial Fireworks.
Those with questions or wishing to report noncompliance are encouraged to phone the fire department at 250-544-4238 or email to fdadmin@csaanich.ca. Reports can also be made to the BC Wildfire Service by dialing *5555 on a cellphone. Please do not dial 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency situation. Those found in violation of the bylaw could face penalties.