• Stouffville has lifted its open air burning ban following recent rain and cooler weather.
  • Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services are reminding residents of rules for recreational and brush fires.
  • Recreational fires do not require permits but must follow strict safety guidelines.
  • Fires must be supervised, limited in size, and kept clear of flammable materials.
  • Excessive smoke is prohibited, and residents are urged to burn only clean, seasoned wood.

 

Stouffville has officially rescinded its open air burning ban, joining other York Region municipalities in easing restrictions following last week’s order from Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services (WSFES). The decision comes after recent rainfall and cooler temperatures significantly reduced fire risk across the region.

In a notice posted today, WSFES reminded residents of the rules governing open air burning, including recreational fires and the burning of brush or yard waste. While burning brush requires a burn permit, residents are encouraged to use curbside yard waste collection for green materials, which create heavy smoke when burned.

Recreational fires do not require a permit, but several guidelines must be followed to comply with the Town’s Open Air Burning By-law.

Fires may not exceed 0.75 metres in diameter and height, must remain under constant supervision until extinguished, and should be kept at least three metres from any flammable materials. Residents are also required to have a means of extinguishing the fire on hand at all times, and no fires are permitted when wind speeds exceed 20 km/h.

Smoke must not be excessive, cause a nuisance to neighbouring properties, or impair visibility on nearby roadways. The best way to minimize smoke, WSFES advises, is to burn clean, properly seasoned wood.

WSFES thanked residents for their cooperation and compliance with the burn ban. While open air burning permissions have been reinstated, safety and courtesy remain the responsibility of every resident who chooses to light an outdoor fire.

Cover Image by Leon Contreras