Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service lifts Burn Ban
Kawartha Lakes – Effective Wednesday, August 27 at 8am, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service will lift the municipal burn ban that has been in place across the municipality.
Although the ban is lifted, the Burn Hazard Index remains at HIGH. Large amounts of storm debris from the April ice storm and only localized precipitation continue to create elevated fire risks. Residents are urged to use caution and follow all open-air burning and fireworks regulations.
“Lifting the ban does not mean the risk has passed,” said Fire Chief Terry Jones. “There’s still plenty of dry, combustible material on the ground from spring storm damage, and rainfall has been uneven across our communities. If you choose to burn or use fireworks, do so responsibly—keep it small, keep water close by, and never leave a fire unattended. If it’s too windy, don’t burn.”
Open-air burning rules under By-Law 2016-110 include:
No permit is required for campfires up to 60 cm in diameter, supervised by an adult, at least 15 m from buildings and 5 m from fences, brush, or combustibles.
A burn permit is required for larger fires. Agricultural and special burn permits are available for larger or farm-related burns.
Only clean, dry wood or wood by-products may be burned. Burning leaves, grass clippings, garbage, or hazardous materials is prohibited.
Fires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before being left unattended.
Flying lanterns are strictly prohibited within Kawartha Lakes.
Fireworks regulations include:
Consumer fireworks may only be discharged on statutory holidays and the day immediately before and after, between dusk and 11 p.m.
A permit is required to discharge fireworks outside of these days, and for all public displays or sales.
Fireworks must be set off in a safe, open area away from buildings, vehicles, trees, and overhead wires.
Only adults should ignite fireworks. Used fireworks must be soaked in water before disposal.
Fireworks are not permitted on municipal property without authorization.
Reporting concerns
If a fire or fireworks pose an immediate risk to property, call 911.
For all other non-emergency fire-related complaints, call 705-324-2191 and follow the prompts.
The Burn Hazard Index will continue to be monitored closely, and residents are encouraged to stay informed on current conditions.
For more information on burn permits, regulations, and updates, visit
www.kawarthalakes.ca/en/living-here/burn-bans-permits-and-by-laws.aspx
