- Effective at noon (Pacific time) on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, the operation of any off-road vehicle for recreational purposes on Crown land is temporarily prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre and Southeast Fire Centre, as well as parts of the Cariboo Fire Centre and Coastal Fire Centre.
- The prohibition applies to Crown land in the 100 Mile House Forest District and the Coastal Fire Centre with exceptions to North Island/Mid-Coast, Mid-Island and Sunshine Coast.
British Columbia is implementing a ban on recreational off-road vehicles (ORVs) on Crown land starting Aug. 10, 2026, due to severe wildfire risks. This prohibition affects the Kamloops Fire Centre, Southeast Fire Centre, and parts of the Cariboo and Coastal Fire Centres, with exceptions for the North Island/Mid-Coast, Mid-Island, and Sunshine Coast.123
The BC Wildfire Service emphasizes that the operation of ORVs, which include all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles, poses a significant risk of igniting new fires during this period of extreme fire activity. The service urges residents and visitors to avoid backcountry areas where conditions are particularly dry and dangerous.
“Given the number of fires currently burning in B.C., the elevated fire danger ratings and the extremely dry conditions in many parts of the province,” the service stated, “we strongly urge people to stay out of the backcountry in these regions.”
The ban does not apply to private lands, national parks, or emergency responders, and violators could face fines up to $1,150. If a violation leads to a wildfire, the responsible party may be liable for all firefighting costs. The BC Wildfire Service is continuously monitoring conditions and may adjust the restrictions as necessary.
To report violations, individuals can contact the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277.
“The ban takes effect at noon Pacific time on Aug. 10, 2026, and covers the Kamloops and Southeast Fire Centres, plus parts of the Cariboo and Coastal Fire Centres. The 100 Mile House Forest District is also included, but the Coastal Fire Centre exempts North Island/Mid-Coast, Mid-Island, and Sunshine Coast.”
