The Canadian province of Nova Scotia is facing pushback for what some have called "draconian" restrictions as it tries to limit wildfire risk in extremely dry conditions.
Last week, Nova Scotia banned all hiking, fishing and use of vehicles like ATVs in wooded areas, with rule breakers facing a C$25,000 ($18,000) fine. A tip line has been set up to report violations.
The Canadian Constitution Foundation, a non-profit that defends charter rights in the country, called the ban a "dangerous example of 'safetyism' and creeping authoritarianism".
Tens of thousands of residents are under evacuation alerts in eastern Canada as the country experiences its second worst wildfire season on record.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston says human activity is responsible for almost all wildfires in the Atlantic province - official statistics from 2009 say 97% of such blazes are caused by people.
