Effective August 5 at 4:00 p.m., due to extremely dry and hazardous conditions, the woods are CLOSED to activities. This includes a prohibition on hiking, camping, fishing, vehicle use, and trail system access within the woods. These restrictions apply to both private and provincial crown land. Industrial permits can be obtained for necessary work activities, though a shift to nighttime operations is strongly encouraged. Brief entry to the woods is okay — for example: short trails providing access from parking areas to locations such as beaches (etc). However, other access and activities within woodland areas are discouraged. Current conditions pose a significant fire risk, which could rapidly compromise Nova Scotia's current safety status. This closure adds an additional layer of protection to the existing burn ban (which includes fireworks). Violations are subject to a $25,000 fine, enforceable by the RCMP and Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR). While seven fines have been issued to date this year — there is now zero-tolerance.
Camping is permitted in official campgrounds. Private landowners are free to their own properties but cannot host others to use the wooded areas of their properties.
This measure is a proactive preventative effort. Nationally, over 700 fires are currently burning, with Nova Scotia having experienced over 100 small wildfires this year.
These restrictions will remain in place until a sustained period of rainfall occurs. Nova Scotia will assess its fire situation if other provinces require assistance with their wildfires.
For more information visit: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/08/05/travel-activities-woods-restricted-prevent-wildfires