The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) has delayed the start of open burning season.

"The decision was made in alignment with partners at BC Wildfire Service, as  remains prohibited in the  (which includes Central Okanagan)," RDCO said in a Thursday, Sept. 26 press release. "While the fire danger rating in the region has dropped slightly due to rain, it is expected to increase over the next few days."

Normally, open burning season runs from Oct. 1 to Apr. 30 for eligible owners in the Central Okanagan. Information about qualifying for a permit can be found on the RDCO .

Local fire chiefs are continuously monitoring conditions as they wait to remove Category 3 restrictions. Once open burning isn't restricted, it is only allowed on days when air quality and venting indices are good.

Currently, campfires are permitted around most of the Central Okanagan but not in the City of Kelowna. 

Residents who see someone illegally burning should call the Regional Fire Dispatch Centre at 250-469-8577.