TOTAL FIRE BAN in Effect, Floodplain Mapping Open House, and more ....

NewsFlash

July 15, 2026

Fire Bans in Effect Across Muskoka

The Muskoka Fire Danger Rating is set to EXTREME and a TOTAL FIRE BAN is in effect across the District of Muskoka including Lake of Bays and Huntsville. Burning infractions are subject to fines.

This means:

NO fires of any type are permitted.
NO campfires are permitted.
NO fires for cooking or warmth are permitted.
NO fireworks are allowed.

NO fires of any type includes, campfires, charcoal barbeques, woodfired pizza ovens, fireplaces, candles, torches – anything with the chance of a spark. Remember that sparks can travel distances and fire can spread through the ground.

The Extreme Fire Danger Rating reflects current conditions and the increased risk of fire spread. Residents and visitors are asked to comply with the fire ban and use caution when enjoying the outdoors.

The Muskoka Fire Danger Rating is determined using the Fire Weather Index (FWI), which considers factors such as temperature, humidity, wind conditions, rainfall, and forest fuel conditions. The rating is verified daily in consultation with local fire departments and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

For the latest fire danger rating and fire ban information:

Short Term Rental Accommodation Owners - please advise your guests of the fire ban.

The District of Muskoka Official Plan is under review.

One key revision is updated floodplain mapping and

clearer development rules for properties in the floodplain.

Following a number of significant flooding events, and in response to provincial requirements to identify and protect residents from natural hazards, the District has updated existing mapping throughout the District, including for Lake of Bays.

Under the draft District Official Plan, properties with existing development in identified flood hazard areas are still able to repair, rebuild or add minor additions to their homes or cottages. However, new development will generally not be permitted.

For Lake of Bays, comparatively few dwellings are in the floodplain, but a few are, plus more cabins and sheds.

To learn more about how this could apply to your property, see:

What You Need to Know: Updated Floodplain Mapping and Policies>

For floodplain maps, go to the Muskoka GeoHub:

Floodline and LiDAR Mapping>

You can also attend In-Person Information Sessions on July 23, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Terry Fox Auditorium, Gravenhurst Centennial Centre, 101 Centennial Drive, Gravenhurst.

Thanks for Joining Us at the 2026 AGM

The Lake of Bays Association Annual General Meeting was held on Saturday July 4 with more than 75 members and guests attending. It was a busy meeting that included:

Presentation of the Betty Day Award to volunteer Kieran Molony.
Recognition of retiring director Don Macintosh.
Welcoming new director Eric VanGinkel
Updates from LOBA President, Paul Gleeson.
Great updates from Lesley Lavender, Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations; Katherine Craine, Huntsville Hospital Foundation; Jennifer Pearson, Township of Lake of Bays Library.
A riveting presentation about Wildland Fire Mitigation and FireSmart principals by Ken Cox, Provincial Fire Advisor for Ontario’s Southern Region with the Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services Branch of the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Monday October 26, 2026 is

Municipal Election Day in Ontario

For Municipal Elections in Ontario you are eligible to vote in both your permanent AND seasonal municipalities. So if you own property in the Township of Lake of Bays or Town of Huntsville and are a Canadian citizen you and your spouse can vote locally (by phone or internet).

BUT, the way the voters' registration list is managed has changed and you may need to re-register your seasonal or second property.

Before August 12, go to RegisterToVoteON.ca

to check if you are on the list and

update your information if you need to.

Having troubles or not comfortable doing this online?

Call Elections Ontario at 866.242.3025.

Sneak Up on Nature at the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation's

Annual Silent Boat Rally; Saturday, July 25

Paddle the beautiful Lower Oxtongue River by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and experience one of Muskoka's most scenic waterways at nature's pace. Explore winding meanders and sheltered bays while watching for turtles, herons, loons, beavers, and other wildlife along the way. Volunteer naturalists paddle with participants, helping spot wildlife and sharing insights about the river's plants, animals, and ecology.

Registration closes Friday, July 17. Reserve your spot today.

Suitable for all ages and experience levels, this relaxed paddle includes:

A scenic 5.5 km paddle along the Lower Oxtongue River to Marsh's Falls Nature Reserve
A wildlife sighting contest with prizes
Time to explore the river's quiet backwaters and sheltered bays
A catered lunch overlooking Marsh's Falls

Event Details

Date: Saturday, July 25

Time: 9:00 a.m. to approximately 2:00 p.m.

Location: Meet at Dwight Beach

Cost: $25 per person

Watercraft: Participants bring their own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard

photo by David Fulford

2025 photo contest submission

Through education, advocacy and engagement, our mission is to foster a healthy natural environment, responsible waterfront development, a thriving community, and a Lake of Bays shared respectfully and safely by all.

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Lake of Bays Association

info@loba.ca

www.loba.ca

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