If you plan to light an outdoor fire, it's essential to follow the rules and follow the Open-Air Fires By-Law to ensure the safety of your property, your neighbours, and our community. Make sure you are aware of the fire permit requirements and obtain a permit if needed.
Before you Burn
Key safety tips for all open-air fires:
Do not start a fire during strong winds, dry conditions, or when a municipal burn ban is in effect. Always check for fire restrictions or advisories before lighting any fire.
Always have a way to put the fire out nearby. Keep a hose, bucket of water, or other effective method nearby to fully extinguish the fire if needed.
Never leave a fire unattended. You must remain with the fire until it is completely extinguished.
A fire permit is required for any fire with a base larger than 1 m².
If a fire is set in violation of the by-law, the Fire Chief and/or By-Law Enforcement officer will order that the fire be extinguished immediately, the Fire Department is authorized to enter the property to extinguish it, and all associated costs will be charged to the property owner.
Anyone who does not comply with this by-law commits an offence and may be subject to a fine under the Provincial Offences Act.
Exemptions, Permits and Licences
A fire permit must be obtained before igniting an open-air fire with a base exceeding 1 m².
1. Submit an Application
Applications must be submitted to the Municipal By-Law Department. A fire may only be started once the permit has been officially issued, submitting an application alone does not grant permission. By applying, you confirm that you have read and understand the requirements of the Open-Air Fire By-Law.
2. Permit Review & Site Inspection
Once your application is received, a Municipal By-Law Officer will visit the proposed fire location.
The Municipal By-law Officer may refuse to issue a fire permit if:
The fire would be less than 50 metres from a neighbouring dwelling.
The fire would be less than 150 metres from a wooded area without snow cover.
Weather conditions are too dry for safe burning.
Smoke from the fire could create a hazard for traffic.
The fire could burn out of control or otherwise pose a danger.
Once the inspection is complete, the Officer may:
Issue the permit,
Issue the permit with conditions, or
refuse to issue the permit.
3. Permit Issuance
A permit is valid only once it has been officially issued. Fire permits are valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Permit fees must be paid within 30 days of the date of issuance.
4. Permit Compliance
Once a permit is issued, permit holders must comply with all permit conditions, including but not limited to:
Supervising the fire at all times until it is fully extinguished;
Burning only approved materials.
Extinguishing the fire immediately if directed by the Fire Chief or a Municipal By-Law Enforcement Officer.
Keeping the fire area manageable so it can be extinguished quickly if needed.
Producing the permit upon request.
Fire permits do not allow:
Fires between one half-hour before sunset and one half-hour after sunrise.
Burning grass, or
Burning petroleum, plastics, rubber, or any materials that produce excessive smoke or noxious fumes.
IMPORTANT:
Permits will not be issued during dry periods as declared by the Fire Chief or the Ministry of Natural Resources. Previously approved permits may be suspended during a fire ban issued by The Nation Municipality’s Fire Department. Always check for current fire restrictions or advisories before starting any fire.
