Thursday, April 3, 2025 – The District of Sooke is enhancing its Broom Drop-Off Program to better support wildfire prevention efforts by accepting both broom and yard waste at no cost to Sooke residents and business owners. As part of the community’s FireSmart initiative, this expanded program provides a convenient way for the public to clear flammable vegetation, helping reduce fire risks.
The drop-off service will be available on four Saturdays in May—May 3, 10, 24, and 31—from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Sooke Parks Yard, located at 2070 Kaltasin Road.
By removing flammable materials from properties, residents play an essential role in making Sooke more FireSmart. The FireSmart program focuses on reducing wildfire risks through proactive measures, including proper vegetation management, fire-resistant landscaping, and creating defensible space around homes and businesses. Regularly clearing broom and yard debris can significantly reduce the spread of wildfire, especially in dry summer months when fire risk is highest.
“Managing vegetation around our properties is an effective way we can reduce the risk of wildfire in Sooke,” says Madison Crawford, District of Sooke FireSmart Program Coordinator and Fire/Life Safety Inspector. “By offering this free drop-off service, we’re making it easier for residents to take action and be part of the solution. Fire prevention is a community effort, and together, we can make a real impact.
FireSmart Yard Waste Drop-Off Tip Sheet
Instructions:
- Separate broom from all other yard waste before drop-off.
- Use separate piles or bags to help streamline collection.
- Ensure all materials are loose and not tied with string or wire.
Accepted Materials:
- Broom (must be separate from other yard waste)
- Branches (up to 6 inches in diameter)
- Leaves and pine needles
- Grass clippings
- Small shrubs and garden trimmings
Not Accepted:
- Soil, rocks, or gravel
- Construction debris
- Food waste or kitchen scraps
- Plastic bags, garbage, or non-organic materials
- Invasive species (other than broom)
Working together as a community, we can reduce wildfire threats and protect our homes, businesses, and green spaces. For more information about the FireSmart program and best practices for wildfire prevention, visit letstalk.sooke.ca/firesmart.
Let’s take action and keep Sooke safe—one load of yard waste at a time!
For neighbours in the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area, free home inspections from a local FireSmart representative, public information sessions and community wood chipping events are also available. Please see the CRD FireSmart web page to learn more: FireSmart | Capital Regional District.
This program is made possible thanks to provincial funding through the Union of BC Municipality FireSmart Community Funding and Supports stream.