Extremely dry conditions caused by several weeks of little rain have forced the Vancouver Park Board to institute a smoking ban.
Smoking — as well as charcoal- and wood-burning barbecues — is banned from all city parks and trails.
The park board is also cracking down on campfires, which are currently not permitted in any of Vancouver’s beaches or parks.
Commissioners are also asking the public for help. People are asked to call authorities immediately if they see smoke or fire, especially in heavily forested areas like Stanley Park.
Propane barbecues are permitted, provided they are 30 inches off the ground without resting on wood or grass.
This smoking ban precedes a permanent one that begins Sept. 1.
