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Is it illegal to hike on public land? Yes, in parts of Eastern Canada.

In Nova Scotia - which shares a border with Maine- it is now a criminal offense to hike, camp or drive through the woods on “Crown Land” (public property), from August 5 and October 15, 2025. Violators may be fined as much as $25,000 for violations of the proclamation and at least one man has already been ticketed. The new law applies to some privately owned land as well.

At least two other north eastern Canadian provinces (New Brunswick and Labrador) have passed similar measures though it’s not yet a crime there.

Officials have justified the move citing the dry conditions and the risk of forest fires, though curiously, paid-camping on “Crown land” remains lawful. Some say this was a preventable issue and blame poor forestry practices (like not removing fallen trees and dead limbs) - an echo of legitimate criticisms the fire management practices in California and elsewhere). While most Canadians seem to understand the logic of being cautious (especially during a dry summer) , many view the measures as being heavy handed and draconian. And there are fears that these temporary restrictions may become permanent.

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