Every year, forest fires ravage thousands of hectares of trees in Quebec. People aren’t always to blame, but are you allowed to start a fire in the great outdoors?
In Quebec’s national parks
A simple rule applies in Quebec’s national parks: campfires are only allowed in places specifically marked for that purpose.
In or near a forest
Before starting a fire in or near a forest, make sure you follow these rules:
- Clear all dead wood, branches, scrub, dead leaves and humus from an area large enough to prevent the fire from spreading.
- Have equipment ready to prevent the fire from spreading and to extinguish it.
- Remain in the area until the fire is completely extinguished.
The fine for not obeying these rules is $1,000 to $5,000.
No campfires when the risk is high
During times when the risk of forest fires is high, campfires can be completely banned.
A map showing risk zones is available on the website of the Société de protection des forêts contre le feu, an organization for protection against forest fires (French only).