Open Air Burning

Are you considering purchasing a chiminea or other outdoor burning device?  If so, keep in mind that this is considered open air burning and is only allowed in designated rural areas of Burlington.  For designated areas refer to the link below "Open Air Burning Map".

Open air burning is not permitted in the urban area of Burlington (South of Dundas Street / HWY 407), open air burning permits will not be issued for this area.  The use of chimineas and fire pits is considered open air burning.  Open air burning is allowed in limited areas of Burlington, please refer to the link below for a map of open air burning areas within Burlington. 

Open Air Burning Map

If you reside within a designated approved open air burning area of Burlington, please note that an Open Air Burning Permit is required prior to all burning.  A Fire Inspector will issue a burning permit following a site inspection of a safe burning location.  Permits will be issued for open air burning of leaves, brush, wood, etc.  The burning of garbage or petroleum based products such as tires, shingles or plastics is strictly prohibited.  The use of backyard fire pits and chimineas in these rural areas is also regulated under these permits.  There is no charge for an Open Air Burning Permit.  Open air burning permits are offered at no charge and must be renewed on an annual basis. To request or renew an open air burning permit, simply send us an email to firedepartment@burlington.ca.  (Please include your mailing address and name.  Please note that you will be contacted by the Burlington Fire Prevention office to verify all information is correct.) 

It is important to note that open air burning is prohibited in Article 2.6.3.4. of the Ontario Fire Code, unless approved by the local authority. Persons failing to comply with the Fire Code are subject to prosecution with a maximum fine of $50,000.00. The City of Burlington also has the ability to charge for cost recovery of non-warranted Fire Department response(s) (Bylaw 46-2007) to a residence where the activity has not been approved by the Fire Department.

Back yard fire pits, chimineas and outdoor burning devices that utilize propane or natural gas as a fuel supply are permitted in all areas as they do not produce smoke or odors that irritate neighbors.  These units are not permitted on apartment balconies and in some condominium complexes (check your buildings rules and regulations).  Also be sure to review and follow all safety precautions noted with the unit.

For more information on open air burning or to inquire about an open air burning permit, please contact Fire Prevention at (905) 637-9536 or via email to firedepartment@burlington.ca.