BBQ ban in RDCO and Kelowna parks

Given the extremely dry conditions and high to extreme fire danger, effective immediately, all barbeques are banned in Regional District of Central Okanagan regional and community parks.

Charcoal and briquette barbeques are never allowed in RDCO parks and in order to proactively prevent any fire from starting, until further notice, propane fueled barbeques are also prohibited.

Visitors are also reminded that smoking, vaping, fires or open flames are not allowed any time in regional parks or RDCO community parks.

New signs advising of the barbeque prohibition are being installed within the RDCO park system. Violating the Regional Parks or RDCO Community Parks bylaws could result in a fine.

The City of Kelowna has also issued notice, asking residents and visitors to avoid bringing all ignition sources into city parks. This applies to all cooking implements, including portable, propane-fueled barbecues.

“We’ve had some scares and close calls recently where small fires have been quickly extinguished or narrowly avoided,” said Parks Services Manager Blair Stewart. “We need people in Kelowna to be extra vigilant when it comes to fire prevention and, in that spirit, we’re taking the step to ban portable, propane-fueled barbecues from our parks.”

The ban on propane barbecues is added to bans on open fires, smoking and taking motorized vehicles off road that are always in place. Parks employees and Bylaw officers will be present in City parks to monitor activity and ensure safety. Authority to make this change comes from the Fire and Life Safety Bylaw, which allows the Fire Chief to take what steps are necessary to prevent fires.

“We need people to be extra vigilant because conditions are so dry that even the smallest spark can lead to a fire,” said Fire Chief Travis Whiting. “I really can’t overstate the level of fire risk Kelowna and the whole Okanagan currently faces.”

Similar restrictions are being introduced in parks operated by the Regional District of Central Okanagan, City of West Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland.

The ban on portable barbecues is one way the city can control that risk without limiting access to parks or closing them outright. That could be the next step if dry, hot conditions continue and if residents and visitors don’t comply with tightened restrictions.

If you see a fire, immediately call 9-1-1 to report it.