Open Air Burning

Current Ramara Fire Danger Rating

Fire Danger Rating Information

Open Air Burning Bylaw

The Township of Ramara has implemented a has implemented an Open Air Burning Bylaw to help residents burn safely. Before burning, check local weather conditions and the below requirements.

Residential Properties

Burn permits are not required for residential properties. Residents have been given approval to open air burn and must follow the below criteria:

• There is no declared fire ban in effect.
• There is no air quality advisory in effect, as determined by Environment Canada.
• The volume of material being burned is no larger in size than 1 metre cubed.
• The fire is surrounded by non-combustible material to prevent spread.
• The fire is a minimum of 5 metres from a dwelling, building, structure, overhanging vegetation and property line.
• The fire is supervised at all times.
• The direction of smoke does not hinder traffic or the quality of life of neighbouring people.
• Wind speed is less than 25 km/h and will have no adverse effect on control of the fire.
• The materials being burned are organic in nature such as dry (untreated) wood, leaves, grass and paper.
• The owner of the property has granted permission to individual to open air burn.
• Form of extinguishment readily available (water and/or extinguisher).

Bona Fide Farmers

Bona Fide Farmers are allowed to have larger burns to help with farming operations; however, they must contact the Fire Department first to provide details and obtain approval.

Bona Fide Farmers who will be burning on a Saturday or Sunday are encouraged to call for pre-approval during regular business hours. 

For approval, individuals are asked to call 705-484-5374 ext. 253 and meet the following criteria:

• There is no declared fire ban in effect.
• There is no air quality advisory in effect, as determined by Environment Canada.
• The volume of material being burned is contained in no more than three piles of a maximum size of 5 metres by 5 metres by 2 metres high each.
• The fire is surrounded by non-combustible material to prevent spread.
• The fire is a minimum of 30 metres from a dwelling, building, structure and property line.
• The fire is supervised at all times.
• The direction of the smoke does not hinder traffic or the quality of life of neighbouring people.
• Wind speed is less than 25 km/h and will have no adverse effect on control of the fire.
• The materials being burned are organic in nature such as dry (untreated) wood, leaves, grass, and paper.
• The owner of the property has granted permission to a bona fide farmer to open air burn. 

Report a Burning Complaint

To report a burning complaint to Ramara Fire & Rescue Services, call the following numbers:

• During Business Hours - 705-484-5374 ext. 253. 
• After Hours - 705-325-5201