Considering alternatives to open burning is required
Metro Vancouver requires alternative methods to be considered, such as chipping, grinding, shredding, and beneficial re-use like composting and mulching.
However, the need for rural and water access properties to burn materials from time to time is recognized. Open burning can help reduce the amount of combustible fuel surrounding properties and help reduce the risk of wildfire, in accordance with
FireSmart principles.
Regulations
Metro Vancouver regulates emissions from open burning through the following bylaws Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 and the
Open Burning Emission Regulation Bylaw No. 1355, 2022 (Bylaw 1355).
Requirements for larger burns on water and road access properties
For larger burn piles, typically associated with land clearing, an
Application for Open Burning Approval is required by Metro Vancouver.
Requirements for smaller burns on water access properties
Use the Water Access Property Burn Information Form if you intend to open burn on a parcel of land with water access in Electoral Area A (excluding the University of British Columbia and University Endowment Lands). This area includes Indian Arm, Carraholly Point, the west side of Pitt Lake, Passage Island, Bowyer Island, and Boulder Island.
If the material is less than 10 centimetres in diameter, submit the form between 10 and 90 days before you intend to open burn.
Requirements for smaller burns on road access properties
Follow these instructions if you intend to open burn on a parcel of land with road access in Electoral Area A (excluding UBC and UEL). This area includes Barnston Island and Howe Sound Mainland Communities, for example Montizambert Wynd, Strachan Point, and Ocean Point).
Step 1: Register with the
Open Burning Registration System — the initial fee is $50 and is valid for 12 months, renewal is $25.
Step 2: Submit the Road Access Property Burn Information Form between 10 and 90 days before open burning:
Step 3: Complete the
Open Burning Notification Form at least 24 hours in advance of burning.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general information purposes only. For a complete list of bylaw requirements, please refer to Bylaw 1355. If there is any discrepancy between the information contained here and Bylaw 1355, Bylaw 1355 shall prevail.