Propane Cannon
Propane cannons like this one will not be banned in the Lower Mainland, but increased restrictions on their use are on the way.Clashes over the use of propane cannons are surfacing in several Lower Mainland municipalities.
In January Abbotsford draft proposals for a bylaw suggested restrictions on devices like propane cannons, squawkers and pistols (also known as shriekers) used by blueberry growers to reduce bird predation on their fruit. Different members of the public wanted the audible noise devices banned outright, while others only wanted the frequency and allowed decibels restricted.
In Langley a final report has moved away from a proposal for an outright ban. It does call for reduced frequency and larger setbacks between propane cannons and neighbouring homes. If the proposed bylaw is enacted it will impose escalating fines of up to $500 on farmers who ignore the new regulations.
Whether Langley’s Propane Cannon Task Force would have recommended a ban was made moot, because the BC Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) sent a letter saying it would not approve of an outright ban.
The provincial ministry stipulates that bans cannot become law unless they are approved by the BCFIRB.