1,032. Kindling on Yom Tov

Shvisas Yom Tov 4:1

On yom tov, we may not light a fire by rubbing or striking wood, stone or metal in order to make a spark. We may likewise not agitate combustible gas that is ignited by shaking, nor may we position something like a clear glass of water in the path of the sun’s rays in order to concentrate the light on something to start a fire. Any other fire-starting activities are equally prohibited. The Sages only permitted lighting a fire from an existing flame. To start a fire is prohibited because it is possible to light a fire before yom tov.

Shvisas Yom Tov 4:2

Even though lighting a fire is permitted on yom tov even when there is no necessity, it is prohibited to extinguish a fire. This is so even when it comes to a fire that must be lit for the purpose of food preparation. Extinguishing is a prohibited form of labor that is not needed for the preparation of food. Just as we may not dowse a fire, we may not extinguish a candle. One who extinguishes on yom tov is liable to the penalty of lashes, the same as for weaving or building.