Due to the unseasonably warm and dry conditions, a city-wide burn ban has been issued by Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services (RHFES) on August 11, 2025.
This ban is similar to those issued by the other fire services across York Region and is necessary given the current forest fires in Ontario and across Canada, deteriorating air-quality and hot and dry conditions that can cause fire to spread quickly.
While the burn ban is active, burning of any kind is not permitted within Richmond Hill and all active permits have been suspended. The ban applies to all open air burning, which is any fire situated outside, whether burned in a container or on the ground.
While residents may still use a barbeque or other approved outdoor cooking appliances using natural gas or propane, RHFES urges residents to refrain from non-essential outdoor cooking using charcoal or woodfired appliances due to the extreme risk.
Burning solid fuel outdoors, including wood, is never allowed without a permit. This includes the use of fire pits, sky lanterns, bonfires and the use of various types of outdoor fireplaces.
In addition:
- Be careful with anything that could start a fire (including citronella candles on the deck)
- Watch your propane or gas equipment carefully; ensure all devices are kept away from combustibles like decks, fences, shrubs and buildings
- Make sure all matches or cigarettes are out completely before disposing of them (do not flick butts out the window while driving)
The Fire Chiefs of York Region are working together to monitor the situation. The ban will be in effect until conditions improve. Thank you for doing your part to keep fires from spreading. For more fire safety information visit RichmondHill.ca/Fire
