Town reminds residents to obtain an Open Air Burn Permit before lighting up

New online application makes applying easier than ever

The St. Marys Fire Department is advising residents to ensure they understand the local restrictions governing open air burning and obtain an Open Air Burn Permit, before starting any fires.

“With spring outdoor cleanup starting, we know some residents would like to burn brush and yard debris on their property,” explained Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “However residents are reminded they shall only burn clean, dry wood, they shall not have a fire larger than 46 centimetres wide by 46 centimetres long by 30 centimetres high in an outdoor container and shall only burn between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and midnight.”

A permit is required and can be obtained through the new online Open Air Burn Permit Application. This form has already been utilized by many residents and the St. Marys Fire Department has received positive feedback on how user friendly the online form is.

Open air burning can include the use of outdoor fireplaces and cooking fires not involving the use of a barbeque. Some outdoor appliances used are not recommended because there is potential for personal injury, property damage and increased risk of a grass fire.

“Whether in the backyard of your home, the cottage or at a campground, make fire safety a priority,” said Brian Leverton, Chief Fire Prevention Officer for St. Marys Fire Department. “Open air burning, especially if left unattended can become difficult to control and can result in a serious widespread fire.”

Always keep fire safety in mind, contact the St. Marys Fire Department for more information at 519-284-1752 or visit townofstmarys.com/burnpermit.

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Contact:
Beverly Brenneman, Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | bbrenneman@town.stmarys.on.ca