Forest fire season begins today, May 15, in Labrador and runs until September 30.

During forest fire season, a burn permit is required to burn vegetation, wood or paper. Permits are available from provincial Forest Management District Offices.

Permits are not required for campfires; however, when planning outdoor or backyard fires in approved devices (e.g. a screened unit placed on mineral soil), it is important to check the daily Forest Fire Hazard Map to determine the level of forest fire risk in your area.

Following the unprecedented 2025 wildfire season, it is essential to remain vigilant and prepared for any challenges the 2026 forest fire season may bring.

Homeowners play a big role in protecting their homes, neighbourhoods and communities from the threat of wildland fire. As residents begin spring clean-up around their properties after a long winter, we remind people that burning grass or debris in open fires is dangerous.

Grass fires spread quickly and are a leading cause of wildfires. They can escape control rapidly, especially in dry or windy conditions when embers can spread and often lead to wildfire responses.

Information on how to prevent wildfires in communities is available at FireSmart Canada. There are simple things homeowners can do to help prevent wildfires.

• Maintain a 1.5 metres (five-feet) non-combustible zone immediately around your home.
• Clean out and screen gutters to prevent debris from collecting.
• Use fire-resistant roofing materials on homes.
• Clean underneath decks and enclose them to prevent them from filling with debris.
• Place firewood piles away from your home.
• Trim grass and weeds.
• Regularly clean up fallen branches, dry grass and needles from the ground to eliminate potential surface fuels.
• Avoid planting woody shrubs or trees near your home.

Budget 2026 invested over $7 million in new funding for emergency preparedness, and $2.2 million for wildfire prevention and mitigation.

To report a wildfire, call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).

-30-