FORT NELSON B.C. - The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality is pressing the province for answers after a wildfire investigation tied to the 2024 Parker Lake fire was closed due to what officials describe as a regulatory error.
In a statement Tuesday, the municipality confirmed it has formally requested a provincial review of the Natural Resource Officer Service’s decision to end its investigation and stop enforcement under the Wildfire Act.
According to the municipality, the investigation was halted after an administrative issue in the Wildfire Regulations effectively prevented it from continuing. Leaders say they are now asking the Minister of Forests to publicly release any findings, explain the legal reasoning behind the decision, and outline plans for accountability moving forward.
Mayor Rob Fraser says the lack of clarity is leaving residents without answers. “Our intent is to seek a fair review process, public clarity, and an appropriate path toward resolution for the community,” Fraser said.
The municipality also argues the absence of written findings could impact residents trying to pursue civil claims after the wildfire, which forced thousands from their homes. Officials say they do not agree with the province’s interpretation of the regulations and have sought independent legal advice to support their position.
The dispute centres on wording in the regulations that previously referred to the “Town of Fort Nelson” instead of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality. The province amended that language in April 2026, but the municipality says the earlier wording contributed to the investigation being shut down.
The municipality had asked for a written response from the Ministry of Forests by June 15 but says none was received. In response, officials have begun meeting with affected residents and launching a public information effort to help people understand their options, including potential legal action.
The Parker Lake wildfire in May 2024 was sparked by a downed transmission line during a high-wind event amid ongoing drought conditions. The blaze led to the evacuation of roughly 3,300 Fort Nelson residents, some travelling more than 400 kilometres, with people allowed back after 17 days.
The municipality says the fire destroyed 11 structures, including four homes, and caused widespread economic impacts due to prolonged power and natural gas outages. Emergency response costs exceeded $1.5 million, while the overall economic hit to the community is estimated at $6.7 million.
Officials say they will continue to push the province for answers and may seek a court ruling if necessary to clarify how the wildfire regulations should apply in the region.