Ontario Wildfires Prompt Mask-Up Orders and Drone Bans on Film Sets — But Production Rolls On
Ontario’s severe wildfire season has brought smoke-related health precautions and drone restrictions to film and television shoots, but production across the province has largely continued. The situation matters because Ontario’s screen industry is a major economic sector still recovering from pandemic disruption and the 2023 Hollywood strikes.
Around 146 fires were active as of Wednesday, including a roughly 3,200-square-kilometre blaze in Wabakimi Provincial Park north of Thunder Bay. Crews are being advised to limit outdoor work when air quality is poor and not to fly drones that could obstruct firefighting aircraft; northern production centres are most affected, with some crews sharing hotels with evacuees, though Thunder Bay and Sudbury had not faced evacuation or filming restrictions.
- Ontario filming continues despite extensive wildfire smoke and active fires.
- Productions are urged to follow air-quality guidance and avoid drones.
- Northern crews face disruption, but major cancellations have been avoided.