Fire News

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue Lifts Fire Ban

August 20, 2026 – Effective 4:00pm today, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue has lifted the fire ban. All recreational fire permits will be reinstated for burning starting at 5:00pm tonight.

The lift on the ban is consistent with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests Restricted Fire Zone declaration which was also be lifted as of 12:01am today.

Residents are reminded that all outdoor burning require permits in The City of Thunder Bay.

For more information on outdoor burning permits, please...

City of Thunder Bay Wildfire Update

A number of active wildfires throughout the region have resulted in evacuation orders and alerts for several communities.

Residents from Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and Collins First Nation are currently seeking shelter in Thunder Bay.

In addition, residents of Upsala, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, and the surrounding area, as well as those in the Ignace, Crystal Lake, and Atikokan areas remain under evacuation alert.

Closer to Thunder Bay, three wildfires are currently being addressed...

Thunder Bay Residents are Reminded to Obtain a Fire Burning Permit

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue reminds residents that all outdoor burning permits inclusive of Open (brush) and Recreational (fire pit) in the City of Thunder Bay must be approved as per the Ontario Fire Code.

Unapproved burning due to not having a permit or breaking the terms and conditions of the fire permit will result in a Cease to Burn Order and a minimum fine of $583.05 as per the user fee bylaw.

Conditions to burn are as follows:

• Open Fire Burning Permits (brush piles) are valid from January 1 to...