Beaches

Beach fires are a popular tradition in Tofino, but it is essential to follow all regulations to ensure safety and protect the environment. Always check for fire bans before starting any fire.

When beach fires are permitted, adhere to the following guidelines:

Permitted Locations & Times

• Beach fires are allowed only on Mackenzie Beach and Chesterman Beach.
• Fires are permitted between 8 AM and 10 PM.

Fire Regulations

• No fires directly on the sand—only elevated wood or propane fires are allowed.
• Fires must be smaller than 0.6 metres high by 0.6 metres wide.
• Must be placed at least 3 metres away from vegetation or other combustibles.
• Do not burn beach materials (like driftwood), garbage, or noxious substances.
• All fires must be contained in a Clean Burning or Reduced Smoke Fire Appliance.

Clean Burning or Reduced Smoke Fire Appliance

A Clean Burning or Reduced Smoke Fire Appliance must:

• Use propane or dry firewood.
• Be raised off the ground.
• Allow for proper air circulation, either through mechanical ventilation or ventilation openings.

Safety Requirements

• You must have at least 8 litres of water on hand while the fire is lit.
• Fires must be fully extinguished, and the ashes must be cool to the touch before leaving.
• Never bury fire ashes in the sand.
• All fires must be supervised by someone 16 years or older.

By following these rules, you help preserve Tofino’s beaches, protect the local environment, and ensure that beach fires remain a safe and enjoyable activity for all.

Print Out: Beach Fire Regulations Poster

Report any wildlife, unattended beach fires or violations of regulations to Tofino Bylaw (250-266-1674) or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (250-725-3242)

Tofino is a dog-friendly community; on-leash dogs are welcome at all beaches. However, keeping your dog on a leash at all times is essential to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

While many residents and visitors love dogs, not everyone feels comfortable around them or enjoys their pets interacting with other dogs.

Keeping your dog leashed also helps protect the natural environment, particularly the shorebirds that rely on these beaches as critical resting points during their long migratory journeys. Frequent disturbances caused by off-leash dogs can prevent these birds from returning to these essential habitats.

By respecting the leash requirement, you contribute to preserving Tofino’s delicate ecosystem and help create a safe, enjoyable beach experience for all visitors—whether they are dog lovers or not.

The use of fireworks, including display fireworks, pyrotechnic special effects, consumer fireworks, and firecrackers, is strictly prohibited in Tofino except during specific times and dates.

Fireworks are only permitted between the hours of 5 PM and midnight on the following designated days:

January 1, July 1, July 4, October 31, December 31

Outside of these times, any use of fireworks is not allowed and may result in fines or other penalties.

These regulations are in place to protect the community, reduce noise disturbances for residents, visitors & wildlife, and prevent fire hazards.

Firearms and Fireworks Display Regulation Bylaw No. 1219

Help protect and preserve Tofino’s natural beauty for everyone to enjoy by practicing the "Leave No Trace" principles during your visit to the beach. This means taking all necessary steps to minimize your impact on the environment. Always pick up after your pets, including disposing of dog waste properly, as it can harm wildlife and pollute the ecosystem if left behind. Be sure to pack out all garbage, including small items like food wrappers, plastic, or cigarette butts, and use designated trash or recycling bins. By doing your part, you contribute to keeping the beaches clean, safe, and beautiful for future visitors and local wildlife.

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited on all public property in Tofino, including its beaches, at any time.

This regulation is in place to maintain a safe and family-friendly environment for everyone. Public spaces such as parks, recreational areas, and beaches are meant for the enjoyment of all visitors, and the ban on alcohol helps reduce disturbances, promote safety, and prevent littering.

Violating these regulations can result in fines or other penalties, so it’s important to be mindful of the rules. Please respect this policy and contribute to preserving Tofino’s natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere.

Drone use within the District of Tofino is subject to legal restrictions due to its close proximity to both the Tofino Harbour Water Aerodrome and the Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ).

Federal aviation regulations strictly limit where drones can be flown in order to ensure the safety of aircraft operations in these areas. This means recreational and commercial drone pilots must adhere to these restrictions to avoid fines and potential safety risks. Before operating a drone, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the applicable laws and obtain any required permissions. Respecting these regulations helps protect both air traffic and the privacy of residents and visitors.

Due to the proximity to the Tofino Harbour Water Aerodrome and to the Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ), drone use in the District of Tofino is restricted by law.

All outdoor public spaces in Tofino are smoke and vape-free to promote a healthier and cleaner environment for everyone. Smoking, including vaping, is prohibited within 6 metres of recreation areas, including beaches.

These regulations are in place to protect public health and reduce exposure to second-hand smoke in high-traffic areas. By respecting these guidelines, residents and visitors alike contribute to a more enjoyable and safer outdoor experience for all. Please be mindful of these restrictions and help keep Tofino’s outdoor spaces smoke-free.

Smoking and Vaping Regulation Bylaw No. 1249

Free camping is not permitted anywhere within Tofino.

Camping in RVs, trailers, cars, or tents is strictly prohibited in public areas such as parking lots, beaches, and streets. To protect the natural environment and ensure a positive experience for everyone, visitors are encouraged to use designated campgrounds and authorized camping facilities.

Unauthorized camping can lead to fines and disrupts the community's efforts to maintain the area's pristine beauty. Please plan ahead and reserve your accommodations at one of the many approved camping sites or lodges available in the region.

The Pacific Ocean can be unpredictable and dangerous, even during the summer when conditions seem calmer. It’s important to always respect the power of the ocean and understand the risks involved. Be CoastSmart by following proper ocean etiquette and being aware of the hazards.

There are no lifeguards stationed at the beaches in the Tofino area, so it is essential to take personal responsibility for your safety. Before heading to the beach, take the time to learn how to identify potential dangers such as riptides, strong currents, and unexpected waves. Being aware of these hazards can make the difference between a fun day at the beach and a dangerous situation.