Safety: Wildfire Prevention Measures

Restrictions on Activities in the Woods

Nova Scotia has restricted activities in the woods and banned open fires because continued hot, dry conditions have greatly increased the risk of wildfires.

Restrictions are in place as of August 5 at 4pm until October 15, or until the Province lifts the restrictions.

There is a $25,000 fine for violating these restrictions.

What are the Restrictions:

– Hiking, camping, fishing and the use of vehicles in the woods are not permitted. You can still access beaches and non-wooded parks, but not trail systems. Camping is allowed only in official campgrounds, such as provincial parks and private campgrounds.

– No open fires in any area of the province at any time of day. Campgrounds must follow burning restrictions. 

– Businesses must follow restrictions on travel and activities in the woods.

– People can use a short trail from a parking lot to a beach but cannot take a long hike through the woods to get to beaches or lakes. Sportfishing is permitted in areas that can be accessed without travelling through the woods.

– There is a province-wide ban on open fires (bonfire, campfires). However, you can still use your charcoal and gas barbeques and gas stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Please note Cape d’Or is temporarily closed as a result of the fire prevention measures.

Links and Resources:

Scenic Ways to Explore Nova Scotia’s Natural Beauty — No Forest Required

There are many ways to enjoy Nova Scotia’s great outdoors without venturing into the woods. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or reconnect with nature, here are some fire-safe ways to do it:

1. Spend a Day at the Beach

Lounge, swim, or beachcomb along our warm Northumberland Strait shoreline. Try a sunset picnic at Heather Beach or chase low tide along the shore.

2. Paddle the Coastline

Explore our coasts by kayak, paddleboard, or canoe in sheltered bays or tidal inlets. Explore calm waters around Tidnish Dock, Pugwash Harbour, or Advocate Harbour.

3. Stay at a Coastal Campground

Book a site at a beachside campground with ocean views and sea breezes. Check for fire-ban updates and enjoy your evenings stargazing.

4. Visit a Local Wharf or Lighthouse

Watch the boats come in, enjoy a seafood lunch, or cast a line from the dock. Wallace, and Parrsboro all offer easy access

5. Stroll a Shoreline Boardwalk or Village Trail

Try the Pugwash boardwalk, or Amherst’s urban pathways.

6. Take a Scenic Drive

Follow coastal routes with ocean vistas, heritage sites, and quaint shops along the way. The Glooscap Trail and Sunrise Trail routes are especially photogenic.

7. Cruise the Bay

Zodiac tours and charters offer safe, exciting ways to view cliffs, marine life, and sea stacks. Check with Local Guy Adventures or Northport Fishing Charters and Tours.

8. Pack a Picnic and Watch the Tides

The Bay of Fundy’s dramatic tides are a natural spectacle all on their own. Spencer’s Island and The Ottawa House By-the-Sea Museum make great tide-watching spots

9. Visit a Community Market or Outdoor Café

Enjoy live music, baked goods, and local crafts in vibrant community settings. Markets and patios remain open and welcoming during fire restrictions.

10. Explore a Coastal Museum or Cultural Site

The Age of Sail Museum, Joggins Fossil Cliffs, Wallace and Area Museum, and Fundy Geological Museum offer fun for the whole family.