Open Air Burning

Planning a backyard campfire or other type of open fire?

By-Law Number 90 of 2017 stipulates that a permit is required for any open fires within the Town of St. Marys. Anyone contravening the by-law could be convicted and liable to penalties.

Getting a permit

Before applying for a permit, please review the rules and restrictions set out in By-Law Number 90 of 2017 (available in print upon request). 

Apply online

Apply for a burn permit easily online with our online Open Air Burn Permit Application form. 

Payment can be made online through this form, or in person after completing the online form. Payment does not guarantee that your application will be approved. Approval can take up to two business days and you will receive an email to confirm that your application has been approved or denied. You will be given a refund if your application is denied.  Please save a copy of the email your receive on your device or print a copy for your records. 

Apply in person

You can apply for a burn permit in person at the Municipal Operations Centre, located at 408 James Street South. The building is open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. We encourage you to book an appointment in advance by calling 519-284-2340. 

The $25 permit fee can be paid by debit, cash or cheque at the Municipal Operations Centre. 

Safety tips

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Refrain from holding open fires on windy days or nights, to keep smoke from coming into neighbouring yards or through neighbouring windows
• Always have a source of water available to be able to extinguish the fire