Off-road vehicles prohibited from Crown lands due to wildfire conditions

Off-road vehicles such as ATVs, side-by-sides and dirt bikes are temporarily prohibited from Crown lands throughout Kamloops Fire Centre, the Southeast Fire Centre and parts of the Cariboo Fire Centre and Coastal Fire Centre as of Monday, Aug. 10. 

The provincial mandate call comes on the heels of ATV clubs across B.C. advising members to keep out of the backcountry until wildfire conditions lessen.

“While modern ATVs and side-by-sides are designed with safety in mind, operating any motorized vehicle in extremely dry conditions carries risks,” ATVBC wrote to members in early August, explaining that heated ATV components could ignite drought-impacted vegetation.

Keeping out of the backcountry not only reduces wildfire risk but also keeps riders safe from increasingly volatile weather. Whether it’s the health impacts and reduced visibility from smoke in the region or the chance for wildfires to spread quickly, conditions could quickly change for the worse.

While riders out in the backcountry might help spot remote fires and report them to BC Wildfire Service, the typical risk of accidents and injuries that comes with operating off-roading vehicles could stress local emergency responders already dealing with wildfire threats and evacuations, ATVBC explained.

“There will be plenty of opportunities to ride when conditions improve,” ATVBC reminded riders. “Right now, the best way we can support our communities, firefighters and fellow outdoor enthusiasts is by giving our forests the opportunity to recover.”

Shortly after the Monday, Aug. 10 Crown lands prohibition was put into effect, Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality issued a statement asking residents and guests to be vigilant during this time of increased wildfire risk. 

“While emergency personnel and partner agencies are actively monitoring conditions and responding where required, wildfire risk remains a shared responsibility,” the statement read. “Everyone is asked to do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires.”

Additionally, a campfire ban remains in effect and folks are asked to stay out of the backcountry unless absolutely necessary.

Off-road vehicles can still operate on private lands and within designated areas in national parks. The prohibition does not apply to emergency responders, agricultural operations or commercial and industrial spaces using off-road vehicles.

Folks operating off-road vehicles on Crown lands during the prohibition could face fines of up to $1,150, and riding causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs. To report a violation, call the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at: 1-877-952-7277.