Burning in the open air includes bonfires, campfires, and any other fire in a yard, field, or other open place. Know the rules before you start an outdoor fire so that everyone’s safety is protected.
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Recreational fires (backyard fires)
The following are recommendations for safe cooking fire practices but do not necessarily list all the city by-law requirements.
- Recreational fires are not permitted. Only fires used for cooking food are allowed.
- Chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and similar appliances in an outdoor open place are only permitted for cooking food. They cannot be used on a building's balcony.
- The fire size must be comparable to the type and quantity of cooked food. For example, a cooking fire to toast marshmallows would be small and only active for a short time.
- A physical barrier must confine the fire, such as rocks around the perimeter or a tire rim.
- The cooking fire must be supervised by a competent person at least 18 years old.
- A suitable means to extinguish the cooking fire must be close by. For example, a garden hose or fire extinguisher.
- Fires must be located where there is no risk of spreading to structures, fences or other combustible materials.
- The fire must be extinguished once the cooking is done.
- The fire cannot create a public nuisance. A nuisance is any emissions from fires that unreasonably interfere with the enjoyment of property. Any cooking fire that is creating a public nuisance must be extinguished immediately.
Bylaw and enforcement
If the Fire Department comes to your property for an open-air burning complaint and finds that you're not following the rules, you may have to pay for their response.
To report a concern about open-air burning, contact the Fire Prevention Office at 905-356-7521 ext. 2207.
