Can I burn today in Havelock-Belmont-Methuen?

Permit required (Section 3.1)

All persons setting an Open Air Fire in the Township must first obtain a Permit from the Fire Department. Should any such fire spread, resulting in the attendance of the Fire Department, the penalties as set out herein will apply to the Owner and/or Tenant/Occupant of the property.

Recreational Fire exemption — defined

“Recreational Fire” means an open-air fire that burns with an area that is no larger than 60 centimetres (24 inches) in diameter provided such fire is used for warmth, cooking food (camp fire), or for the burning of non-prohibited materials. A permit is not required for a recreation fire, but shall be supervised at all times.

Wind / nuisance conditions (Section 3.3)

No open air burning shall be permitted when the wind is in such direction or intensity that the following conditions occur: a. a decrease in visibility on any highway or roadway; b. a rapid spread of fire through grass or a brush area; c. public nuisances by creating negative health effects on neighbouring residents.

Discretionary fire chief suspension (Section 3.4)

Where in the opinion of the Fire Chief or his designate, a potentially dangerous situation exists due to fire, smoke, weather, environmental or health concerns the Fire Chief may rescind, suspend or cancel any or all burning permits and may declare a complete fire ban.

Permit wind limit and hours (Schedule “A”)

This Permit is not valid when winds are greater than 10 km/h (7 mph), or if a burn ban is in effect... Open air fires are prohibited two (2) hours before sunset until two (2) hours after sunrise any day, unless by special permission. This does not apply to Recreation/Campfires.

Built-up area clearance (Schedule “A”, item 9)

Fires within a built up areas must be in an Approved Device, be contained to prevent the spreading of fire, and be a minimum of 12 meter (40ft) from any structure or property boundaries for campfires only, and not exceeding 60 cm (24in) in diameter.