Thursday, April 27, 2023 – The District is reminding residents that backyard burning “season” concludes at sunset on April 30th.
Each year, backyard burning of yard debris is limited to days when the ventilation index is GOOD and may only occur only between November 1 and April 30.
Alternatives to Burning
Composting, recycling and chipping are good alternatives to burning yard waste debris. See the Sooke Region Chamber Service Directory for local businesses available to support yard waste disposal.
More on the Ventilation Index
The ventilation index is a measure of how weather conditions will impact the dispersion of smoke. Find the Ventilation index:
- See the Ventilation Index Interactive Map;
- Read the text version of the index online (find Sooke’s venting index, look for the “SRN VAN ISLD” listing); or
- Call 1-888-281-2992 and press “2” to verify the current venting index for South Vancouver Island.
Education and Enforcement
If you are concerned about adherence to the regulations, please contact Bylaw 250.642.1634. In case of fire that is an immediate threat to life or property, always call 9-1-1.
Fines for non-compliance are $200 for the first offence and $400 for the second offence.
Learn more: