Comox Valley fire departments have enacted a category 2 and 3 burning ban effective April 30.

This ban applies to all properties within the CVRD鈥檚 fire protection areas including Hornby and Denman islands, as well as properties within the Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, and Ships Point fire protection area.

鈥淥ur spring has already been warmer and drier than usual, which makes it even more important to protect our community, property and beautiful landscapes around us,鈥� explains Bruce Green, regional rural fire chief/fire chief with the Oyster River Fire Rescue.

鈥淲ithin all areas of the Comox Valley including Hornby and Denman islands, all category 2 and 3 fires will be banned,鈥� he added.

Campfires are still allowed in most areas, but confirmation is needed with the local fire department. A campfire is defined as a fire no bigger than 50 cm in diameter using seasoned firewood for warmth, cooking or ceremonial purposes.

At this time, beach fires will also still be permitted where allowed, noted Green.