Wildfire Prevention Measures – Restrictions on Activities in the Woods.
Nova Scotia has restricted activities in the woods and banned open fires because continued hot, dry conditions have greatly increased the risk of wildfires.
Restrictions are in place as of August 5 at 4pm until October 15, or until the Province lifts the restrictions. There is a $25,000 fine for violating these restrictions.
What are the Restrictions:
- Hiking, camping, fishing and the use of vehicles in the woods are not permitted. You can still access beaches and non-wooded parks, but not trail systems. Camping is allowed only in official campgrounds, such as provincial parks and private campgrounds.
- No open fires in any area of the province at any time of day. Campgrounds must follow burning restrictions.
- Businesses must follow restrictions on travel and activities in the woods. Please close any areas of your business that require movement and activity in the forest. Do not permit burning, including campfires, on your property. Tour operators should ensure guided tours do not include activities in the woods.
- People can use a short trail from a parking lot to a beach but cannot take a long hike through the woods to get to beaches or lakes. Sportfishing is permitted in areas that can be accessed without travelling through the woods.
Municipality of Chester Closed Trails
Castle Rock Trail, East River
Haughn Estate Natural Area Trail, Marriotts Cove
Gold River Trail, Beech Hill Road
Chester Connection Trail (Rum Runners Trail)
All Trails at Ross Farm Museum
Ruby's Trail, New Ross
Larders Lane, New Ross
Popner Hill Trail, New Ross
Blandford Community Centre Trail, Blandford
Links and Resources:
- Fire restrictions: https://novascotia.ca/alerts/
- Wildfire Prevention Restrictions: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/08/05/travel-activities-woods-restricted-prevent-wildfires
- Department of Natural Resources 1-800-565-2224
