CCF Warns Premier Houston: Hiking Ban Threatens Freedoms, Petition Demands Repeal

The CCF has formally sent a letter to Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston and National Resources Minister Tory Rushton urging the provincial government to reconsider the recently announced restrictions on hiking, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking and other outdoor activities in the province’s forests. Citing wildfire risks amid dry conditions, the ban was announced and came into effect August 5.

While the CCF recognizes the importance of wildfire prevention and supports targeted safety measures, this sweeping ban unnecessarily and disproportionately restricts responsible outdoor recreation that has zero fire risk. The ban negatively impacts the well-being of Nova Scotians. The full letter can be read here.

“The Nova Scotia government is threatening ordinary citizens with $25,000 fines for hiking, even though this poses virtually no threat of starting a fire,” said CCF Counsel Josh Dehaas. “We are calling on the government to rescind these draconian measures and let Nova Scotians safely enjoy their world-famous forests for the remainder of the summer and beyond.”

“When safety becomes a weapon, everyone loses,” said CCF Litigation Director Christine Van Geyn. “Nova Scotia’s forest ban is overkill and it's deja vu. It's happening now because the government got away with it last time. This is a classic example of safetyism: a mentality where risk becomes an excuse for control, not communication. Once the government sees that overreach is workable, it’s replayed every few years.”

The CCF is now circulating a public petition calling on the government to immediately rescind the ban and restore access to the province’s forests. If the restrictions are not lifted, the CCF may take legal action.

The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) is a registered charity, independent and non-partisan. We defend the constitutional rights and freedoms of Canadians in the courts of law and public opinion.

For further information, contact:
Josh Dehaas,
Counsel, Canadian Constitution Foundation
1-888-695-9105 x. 104
jdehaas@theccf.ca

Christine Van Geyn
Litigation Director, Canadian Constitution Foundation
1-888-695-9105 x. 103
cvangeyn@theccf.ca

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