Quebec’s government announced on July 8, 2026 that all open‑air fires are now prohibited in the forested region north of the St. Lawrence River. The order comes as the province monitors at least 200 active forest fires spread across the northern landscape.
The ban applies to any combustion activity that could generate flames outdoors, including campfires, barbecues and any other open‑flame cooking or heating methods. Officials indicated that the restriction is intended to reduce the risk of new ignitions while firefighting crews concentrate on suppressing the existing blazes.
Northern Quebec has seen dozens of fires flare in recent weeks, prompting heightened alert levels across the area. The province’s fire‑management agencies have been deploying personnel, aircraft and ground crews to contain the hotspots, but the sheer number of active incidents has strained resources. By eliminating additional sources of ignition, the government hopes to limit the spread of the current conflagrations.
Residents and visitors in the affected zone are advised to comply with the prohibition and to follow any additional safety instructions issued by local authorities. Non‑compliance could result in fines or other penalties. The ban will remain in effect until officials determine that fire activity has decreased to a level that no longer warrants the restriction.