Open burn season in the Central Okanagan ends next week

Open burning season in the Central Okanagan ends on Thursday, April 30.

Until then, when conditions allow, all eligible property owners, farmers and other large lot owners with permits from their local fire jurisdiction may burn specific wood debris outdoors.

Residents must obtain an open burning permit that meets the Regional District Smoke Control Bylaw and all requirements of the Provincial Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. Ensure burning is permitted on the day you want to burn by calling the outdoor burning hotline at 1-855-262-2876 or checking the online outdoor burning indicator at rdco.com/airquality.

Nuisance smoke from open burning is prohibited in Kelowna, Lake Country, West Kelowna, Peachland and Central Okanagan East and West electoral areas.

Alternatives to open burning include chipping, grinding, or yard waste disposal at the City of Kelowna Glenmore Landfill or the RDCO Westside Residential Waste and Recycling Centre off Asquith Road in West Kelowna (fees apply at both locations). North Westside and Traders Cove area residents may dispose of a maximum of 10 bags of yard waste per visit at their transfer stations. Please note, stumps, branches, logs or limbs over 5 cm in diameter should be taken to the Glenmore Landfill only.

The RDCO Air Quality program has more information available on other disposal options including the Mow/Chip/Rent/Buy incentive of up to $3,000 for qualifying participants.

Campfires are allowed in most areas of the Central Okanagan, except within the City of Kelowna, where they are always prohibited. Appropriate safety precautions must be taken to prevent the spread of a fire including ensuring the fire is always attended, having tools and water on hand to contain the fire, and making sure it is fully extinguished.