Open Fire Pit Requirements within the City of Brandon

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brandon, MB – With the onset of warmer weather and the backyard leisure season soon to be in full swing, Brandon Fire & Emergency Services would like to remind residents that all fire pits located within the City of Brandon cannot be operated without an authorized permit. As of January 1st, 2016, anyone found to be operating a fire pit without a permit will be issued a fine, without warning, of $200 pursuant to City of Brandon Open Air Fires Bylaw No.6746.

As per the City of Brandon Open Air Fire Bylaw, approved fire pits must:

-              Be at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) from any building, property lines or combustible materials;

-              Have an overall pit depth that does not exceed 36 cms (14 inches) and a pit opening that does not exceed 61 cms (24 inches) inside diameter;

-              Have a spark arrestor mesh screen with a grid no larger than 1.25 cms (1/2 inch);

-              Have enclosed sides made from brick, concrete blocks or heavy-gauge metal.

-              Have a 16 cm (6 inch) clearance around it

There is absolutely no cost to obtain a permit, however, prior to issuing of a permit, an inspection of the proposed site /appliance by a member of Brandon Fire and Emergency Services is required. Applications must be completed in full and the fire pit must be inspected and approved before a permit is deemed valid. If not approved within thirty days, a new application must be submitted.

More information on open fire safety and the appropriate application forms for an approved Outdoor Burning Appliance can be found at: http://www.brandonfire.ca/images/pdf/permits/Fire_Pit_Permit_Application.pdf
Permits can also be obtained from Brandon Fire & Emergency Services at 120 - 19th Street North or 1301 - 13th Street, seven days a week between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Residents with approved outdoor fire pits are reminded to be “Good Neighbours” and ensure that any smoke from their fire pit is not heading into their neighbour’s yards. The City of Brandon and Brandon Fire and Emergency Services thanks residents for their cooperation in ensuring that spending time outdoors this summer is a safe and enjoyable experience for all.