A Reminder that Residential Backyard Burning is Banned

Except for those who are eligible and obtain a proper permit

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed March 28, 2019 3:00 PM

Summary

Nanaimo Fire Rescue is reminding residents that backyard burning, often called burn piles, is banned except by permit. The City encourages residents who are planning a backyard burn to familiarize themselves with the Fire Bylaw and the required conditions to obtain a permit.

Link to Strategic Plan: By regulating burning in the City of Nanaimo, the impact to the environment is minimized therefore supporting the Environmental Responsibility pillar in the City's strategic plan.

Key Points

Burning permits may be issued for an open burning fire on a lot that is one acre in size or greater OR lots located on Protection Island.
Burning is only permitted from sunrise to sunset, Fridays and Saturdays, during the months of April and November. Only organic yard waste materials such as garden refuse and pruned clippings may be burned.
Burning of wooden construction material, stumps, land clearing materials/debris or household garbage is not permitted.
Fires shall not exceed 1.5 meters across in size; shall be hand fed and shall be located at least 3 meters from any combustibles. A charged hose or a bucket of water must be located nearby and at the ready to extinguish fire should it be necessary.

Quotes

"Tending any kind of open fire is an important responsibility. Anyone issued a burning permit must ensure the fire is being monitored closely, until it is completely extinguished."

Umesh Lal

Fire Prevention Officer

Nanaimo Fire Rescue

Quick Facts

Residents are reminded to review the Fire Bylaw by visiting fire.nanaimo.ca to see if they meet the specific conditions to obtain a burn permit.
Permits are not required for residential outdoor cooking fires or barbecues, grills or smokers. However, there are specific conditions to follow.
A burning permit can be obtained by calling Nanaimo Fire Rescue at (250) 753-7311.

Links

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Contact:

Umesh Lal

Fire Prevention Officer

Nanaimo Fire Rescue

250-755-4565

Print News Release

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