The operation of off-road vehicles (ORVs) on Crown land is once again permitted in the Kamloops Fire Centre, which includes the South Okanagan.
The high risk of triggering wildfires led to a ban in early August on ORVs using Crown land off road.
The province announced that their use would once again be permitted effective as of noon on Wednesday, Sept. 20 in the Kamloops, Southeast and Cariboo fire centres.
“Cooler weather conditions and recent precipitation have reduced the flammability of fine fuels in these regions, which has significantly reduced the chance of a wildfire starting from a spark or a hot engine,” B.C. Wildfire Service said in a news release.
Some area restrictions remain in the vicinity of large wildfires in these fire centres, including the continued prohibition on ORVs in these areas.
Campfire prohibitions remain in effect in all three fire centres.
Those found contravening an area restriction can be fined $767 and those in contravention of a campfire prohibition can be fined $1,150.
If a person’s activities contribute to a wildfire, they may also be ordered to pay firefighting and associated costs.
To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 toll free.
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