Townships announce burn bans due to poor air quality

Wildfire smoke blanketed Waterloo Region and beyond on Wednesday which triggered an air quality alert and prompted local townships to announce burn bans. North Dumfries suspended all open-air burning and recreational burning, although BBQs and other approved devices were excluded. The township warned it may implement a total burn ban because of the dry conditions [...] The post Townships announce burn bans due to poor air quality appeared first on CityNews Kitchener .

Wildfire smoke blanketed Waterloo Region and beyond on Wednesday which triggered an air quality alert and prompted local townships to announce burn bans. North Dumfries suspended all open-air burning and recreational burning, although BBQs and other approved devices were excluded. The township warned it may implement a total burn ban because of the dry conditions which increase the risk of a fire.

Fire officials are monitoring the situation closely because of the concerns. Related: Air quality warning upgraded to severe orange-level in Waterloo Region Woolwich is also implementing a burn ban as of 12 a.m. Thursday. “Effective at that time, all active burn permits will be suspended, and no new burn permits will be issued until further notice,” read a notice from the township.

“Residential and open-air burning will not be permitted while the ban remains in effect. Propane and natural gas appliances, such as barbecues and gas fire tables, may continue to be used safely in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.” The Township of Wilmot issued a reminder to its residents that both recreational and open-air fires are not permitted while severe air quality warnings are in effect.

Local residents are being advised that failing to comply with any burn ban could result in fees and/or charges. Wilmot is currently under an orange-level air quality warning due to smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario. Residents are reminded that recreational or open-air fires are not permitted during these warnings.

Questions: 519-634-5660 or fire@wilmot.ca pic.twitter.com/ZxE7d0RF0k — Wilmot Township (@WilmotTownship) July 15, 2026 The post Townships announce burn bans due to poor air quality appeared first on CityNews Kitchener .