April 24, 2026

NS Premier Says Wildfire Woods Ban Was Justified After Court Rules Against It

Nova Scotia’s premier is defending his government’s so-called “woods ban” last year, saying the measures were put in place during a period of high wildfire risk and that he would do so again if necessary “to keep people safe.” Premier Tim Houston announced major restrictions on outdoor activities across the province last August as the province grappled with dry conditions that could spark wildfires. The province banned hiking, camping, fishing, mining, forestry, and other outdoor activities in all forested regions and said anyone caught violating the restrictions could face a fine of up to $25,000. A Nova Scotia Supreme Court judge ruled last week that the ban was “unreasonable” and placed limitations on travel that were not “trivial or fleeting.”