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Burning Permit - Common Questions

Q Are burning permits required for open burning on Prince Edward Island?
A Yes, you require a burning permit - one of three types depending on the material to be burned. If the proposed burning location lies with a city's or town's boundary, please contact the applicable city or town to determine whether you are allowed to have any kind of open fire.

Q Are burning permits required for campfires?
A If the landowner allows them, small campfires built in properly constructed sites and used for cooking and warmth are allowed without a permit. In all cases, proper precautions must be taken to ensure the fire does not escape. This includes having readily available water and fire fighting tools close to the campfire site and having a responsible person present who is capable of fighting fire. Note: when conditions are dry, add dish soap to the water to improve its effectiveness for fire suppression and extinguishing the coals and embers.

Q Do I require a permit to burn grass or brush?
A Yes, if you are within 200 metres of burnable vegetation including hedgerows, woods, grassland, dry cereal crops (e.g. grains), and marshes, you require a forest fire burning permit between March 15th and December 1st each year.

Q Is there a charge for these forest fire burning permits?
A Not at this time, but you must obtain and sign the permit at a District Forestry Office.

Q What happens if I burn without a permit?
A You could be liable on conviction of a fine between $200 and $1,000 plus the victims of crime surcharge as well as fire suppression costs and any court or other costs. If the offense occurred during a fire ban (fire closure period), the fines increase to $500 to $2,000 plus the victims of crime surcharge as well as fire suppression costs and any court or other costs.

Q If the fire escapes, am I liable?
A Yes, you are liable for the suppression costs plus you are liable to your neighbours for damages.

Q Are there things I can do to help contain the fire?
A Yes. Read Controlling the Burn and make sure that you:

1. Check the weather forecast to ensure the winds and Fire Weather Index are within the conditions prescribed on the permit and that you have notified the local fire department at the number specified in the permit;
2. Take extra precautions around any buildings or escape areas;
3. Have sufficient people, hand tools, and water to control the fire or to extinguish it should conditions change to be outside those specified in the burning permit; and
4. Carry a cell phone that provides coverage for the burn site or have immediate access to a telephone.