Stay safe: reminders of open air burning rules in Oshawa

Oshawa Fire Services reminds residents that only those with an approved fire permit (for properties north of Conlin Road, having greater than 10 acres) respecting the Open Air Burning By-law can burn outdoors. All other forms of burning, including outdoor wood-burning fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas, are prohibited.

By-law #73-2012

An open air burn permit may be obtained for rural properties north of Conlin Road and meeting the requirements of By-law #73-2012. Those not complying with the by-law may be subjected to fines.

Open air fire means any fire situated outside, whether burned in a container or on the ground, not including a barbecue or an approved device.

Approved devices

Propane/natural gas fueled appliances such as propane/natural gas barbecues, propane/natural gas fire pits, and propane/natural gas fire bowls are allowed provided that they are ULC/CSA/Warnock-Hersey approved and are used in accordance with instructions provided and subscribed clearances are adhered to. Charcoal fueled barbecues are also permitted.

Not permitted

Campfires, incinerators, burn drums and construction site fires are examples of open air burning which is not permitted, as well as fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas or outdoor wood fireplaces. Residents are reminded that burning solid fuel outdoors, including wood, is never allowed without a permit.

How you can help

• Be vigilant when discarding cigarette butts and matches while outdoors.
• Ensure that matches and lighters are kept or locked in areas not accessible to children and youth.
• Remind children and youth of the dangers of playing with and lighting fires.
• Be aware of your surroundings when outdoors in open fields and wooded areas.
• Report illegal open air burning by calling the Oshawa Fire Services Dispatch non-emergency line at 905-433-1234 or to report an emergency, call 9-1-1.

For information about Oshawa Fire Services, visit oshawa.ca/Fire and @OshawaFire on Twitter.

For City of Oshawa updates, visit Oshawa.ca/NewsCentre to follow us on social media, subscribe to news and alerts, and have your say on Connect Oshawa.