Liberal MP Says Banning Access to Woods Highlights Urgency of Wildfire Season

Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are fining people for accessing Crown land during an intense wildfire season, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Liberal MP Corey Hogan stated that the move shows the urgency of the moment, highlighting the need for caution and cooperation to address the ongoing wildfires.

In response to the ongoing wildfire season, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have implemented strict measures to prevent further spread of fires, including hefty fines for accessing Crown land. These measures underscore the seriousness of the situation and the need for public cooperation.

As of July 2, 2025, Nova Scotia has prohibited all personal and commercial activities in its forests, including hiking, camping, fishing, and vehicle use. The province has also revoked burn permits and increased penalties for violations. Fines for breaching the burn ban now reach up to $25,000, a significant increase from previous years. This stringent approach follows a devastating wildfire in 2023 that destroyed over 300 homes and 60 other structures [1].

New Brunswick has also closed all Crown land to public use, including fishing, camping, and hiking, due to the hot and dry weather conditions. The province has imposed a complete ban on forestry operations, with fines for violations reaching up to $25,000 [1].

In Newfoundland and Labrador, fines for violating the province-wide fire ban have been increased to up to $150,000, with a potential six months imprisonment for defaulters. The move was prompted by three significant wildfires currently raging in the province [1].

These measures are part of a broader effort to combat the wildfire threat, with the Canadian Armed Forces and Coast Guard being deployed to assist in firefighting efforts. While these restrictions may seem harsh, they are intended to minimize the risk of further wildfires and protect public safety.

Liberal MP Corey Hogan emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the move reflects the gravity of the wildfire threat and the need for caution and cooperation. The Canadian Constitution Foundation has criticized the ban in Nova Scotia, arguing that it is disproportionate to the wildfire risk [1].

Despite the restrictions, both provinces have allowed access to beaches and parks, and landowners can use their own properties, but they cannot host others to use wooded areas. Nova Scotia has issued 10 tickets this year for violating burn restrictions, highlighting the need for public compliance.

These measures are expected to remain in place until the fall, as both provinces have identified March 15 to October 15 as the period of heightened wildfire risk. The provinces are urging residents to report any wildfires or violations of the fire restrictions by calling a designated government number.

References:
[1] https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/hot-dry-weather-in-atlantic-canada-prompts-fire-bans-and-increased-penalties-for-violators