Community Update: OKIB Range Lands Remain Closed

Update as of 3:00pm, Aug 15, 2026

As more residents return home following the Bradley Creek Wildfire, be reminded that the lifting of Evacuation Ordersdoes not mean Okanagan Indian Band Range Lands are open for public access.

By order of a Band Council Resolution (BCR), the OKIB Band Range is closed to all unauthorized persons until further notice.

Access is restricted because of the ongoing wildfire response and hazards that remain throughout affected areas. Only those authorized by OKIB, or emergency response personnel carrying out their duties, are permitted to enter.

The BCR also prohibits unauthorized people from stopping, parking or congregating along Westside Road where it passes through OKIB reserve lands, or within designated emergency response areas. These restrictions are necessary to protect public safety, maintain access for emergency crews and support ongoing wildfire suppression and recovery work.

We understand that people are interested in seeing the affected area. However, please do not enter Range Lands, travel into restricted areas or stop along Westside Road to view wildfire damage. The area continues to contain hazards, and crews and equipment are still working throughout the affected lands.

This order will remain in place until rescinded by Chief and Council. Anyone found trespassing, stopping, parking or otherwise failing to comply may be removed from the area and may be subject to enforcement.

If you see unauthorized people accessing OKIB Range Lands, please immediately notify OKIB Community Safety at 250-306-3892.

Provincial off-road vehicle restrictions are also in effect.

The Province has temporarily prohibited recreational use of off-road vehicles on Crown land throughout the Kamloops and Southeast Fire Centres and portions of the Cariboo and Coastal Fire Centres. This includes ATVs, motorcycles and side-by-sides.

Violations of the provincial prohibition may result in a ticket of up to $1,150. Anyone whose actions cause or contribute to a wildfire may also be required to pay firefighting and associated costs. Provincial violations can be reported to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.

Returning home is an important step in our recovery, but restrictions remain in place for a reason. Please respect the closures, give crews the space they need to work, and help protect our community and lands as this work continues.