This summer, outdoor enthusiasts in Nova Scotia face a difficult decision: stay out of the woods or face a $25,000 fine.
On August 5, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston implemented a ban on "hiking, camping, fishing and use of vehicles such as ATVs in the woods due to an elevated wildfire risk," reported the CBC. Camping in campgrounds is still allowed, but trail systems are off limits, and people who work outdoors, such as miners, need to obtain permits and work mostly at night to reduce fire risk, according to the CBC. Under the ban, "private landowners are free to use their own properties," but guests are not allowed to use wooded areas on the land, per Houston's office. Anyone found violating these rules will face a $25,000 fine.
Nova Scotia has had an active wildfire season. In 2025, the province has seen 139 wildfires—22 in the last week—which have burned over 8,000 acres of land. One fire, which was likely caused by lightning, has resulted in an evacuation order for parts of Nova Scotia's Annapolis County. Unless weather conditions change, the ban will remain in place until October 15.
