Updated: Fire at former Goodyear Lands

Update #2 – October 14, 4:30 p.m.

Clarington Emergency and Fire Services (CEFS) continued monitoring the site at the former Goodyear Lands throughout the afternoon and evening of October 13. Crews determined that the fire began on the roof, which later collapsed into the building. As a safety precaution and to help ensure the fire was fully extinguished, excavators were brought in to remove a portion of damaged wall along the north side of the building.

On the afternoon of October 13, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) attended the scene to evaluate environmental conditions. During its assessment, two water samples were collected from the Bowmanville Creek and submitted for analysis. During their scene assessment, the MECP determined that air-quality testing was not needed. MECP is continuing to work with the property owner.

Due to extensive damage to the building, Clarington’s Deputy Chief Building Official has issued an “Order to Remedy Unsafe” under the Ontario Building Code. This Order requires the landowner to demolish the building safely by April 30, 2026, in accordance with provincial regulations to protect the local environment and community.

The Municipality is urging residents to stay off the property as the building is structurally unstable and extremely dangerous. We are especially reminding teens and young adults not to enter the area or explore the site — it may look harmless from a distance, but hidden hazards like falling debris and unstable walls pose real risks.

Update #1 – October 13, 3:45 p.m.

The fire at the former Goodyear Lands is under control, and crews remain on scene to extinguish hot spots and monitor smoke conditions. Smoke is minimal. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is en route to the scene to evaluate the environmental conditions, including air and water quality.

The Municipality extends its appreciation to our incredible firefighters for their swift, professional, and coordinated response to this incident.

Clarington Emergency and Fire Services were called to a fire at the former Goodyear Lands in downtown Bowmanville shortly after midnight today, Monday, October 13.

The fire is now under control, and crews remain on site to monitor smoke conditions and ensure the area is safe.

Clarington Fire is asking residents to stay away from the area for their safety. There is no risk to air quality at this time; however, sections of the building are unstable. Fire crews are expected to stay on site for the remainder of the day. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.