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Open burning permits and limits in Chilliwack
Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada. Open burning is limited to eligible agricultural and rural properties during March-April and October-November seasons. A
Key information
Open burning is limited to eligible agricultural and rural properties during March-April and October-November seasons. A $35 seasonal permit does not make every day suitable: ventilation must be good and wind cannot exceed 25 km/h.
On this page
Permit and daily conditions
The 2026 fall season is October 1 to November 30. Spring is March 1 to April 30. Apply each season through MyChilliwack or the Building/Land Development counter. The address is checked for eligibility.
Before each burn, check the daily ventilation index and wind. Even a good index does not allow burning if wind exceeds 25 km/h. Permits are not refunded if poor conditions prevent use.
Material, pile and setback rules
Only clean seasoned plant debris may be burned. Construction/demolition waste and stumps are prohibited. Land-clearing burning is prohibited. One pile at a time is allowed, at most two metres high and three metres across.
Minimum distances are 15 metres from fences, hedges, power poles/lines or on-site buildings; 100 metres from neighbouring homes/businesses; 500 metres from hospitals, schools or care facilities; and 30 metres from streams or public roads.
Attendance, hours and alternatives
Burn only between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., with an adult present throughout. For larger woody material, additional provincial notification and frequency rules apply; read the linked provincial regulation before planning that burn.
Wood-burning fire pits and freestanding appliances are not allowed anywhere in Chilliwack at any time. Gas-fuelled outdoor appliances are the stated alternative. Consider chipping, composting or accepted vegetative drop-off instead.
Key details at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Seasonal permit | $35 |
| Annual seasons | March 1-April 30; October 1-November 30 |
| Burn hours | 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| Pile maximum | 2 m high, 3 m diameter; one at a time |
| Wind ceiling | No burning above 25 km/h |
| Ventilation | Good index required |
Steps to follow
- Check property and alternatives
Burning is not allowed on every residential lot.
- Get seasonal permit
Use the eligible address application.
- Check day and supervise
Follow weather, setback, pile, material and time rules.
Useful questions and answers
Can an ordinary urban lot get a burning permit?
The city limits burning to agricultural and rural properties.
Can a spring permit be reused in fall?
No. A permit is required for each season.
Does good ventilation always allow a burn?
No. Wind above 25 km/h still prohibits it.
What is the pile size limit?
Two metres high and three metres in diameter.
Can two piles burn together?
No. Only one pile at a time on the property.
Can I burn stumps or demolition waste?
No. Those materials are prohibited.
What distance is required from neighbouring homes?
At least 100 metres.
Can I use a wood fire pit year-round?
No. Wood-burning fire pits and freestanding appliances are prohibited year-round.
Where do burning complaints go?
Fire on 604-792-8713 in weekday office hours, or 604-215-4842 after hours; a fire emergency requires 911.