Residents in Cambridge, Ontario, can once again conduct approved outdoor burning after local fire officials lifted a temporary suspension on open-air burn permits. The decision follows improved weather conditions that have lowered the wildfire risk that prompted the precautionary restriction.
Open-Air Burn Permits Available Again
The Cambridge Fire Department announced that the temporary suspension of open-air burn permits has been lifted effective immediately. Residents may now apply for and use permits in accordance with the City of Cambridge’s Open Air Burning By-law 313-86 and all applicable permit requirements.
Officials said the suspension was introduced as a preventive measure during a period of elevated fire danger. With conditions improving, normal permitting has resumed.
Safety Rules Remain in Effect
Although outdoor burning is once again allowed, the Cambridge Fire Department is reminding residents that open-air fires must be conducted responsibly to reduce the risk of accidental fires and protect surrounding neighborhoods.
Under the city’s Open Air Burning By-law:
- A valid Open Air Burn Permit is required before conducting any approved outdoor burning.
- Fires must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
- Burning is prohibited when weather conditions prevent the safe dispersal of smoke.
- Smoke must not create a nuisance for nearby properties or pose a hazard to motorists.
- Permit holders must follow all permit conditions and directions issued by the Cambridge Fire Department.
Weather Conditions Should Be Monitored
Fire officials encourage residents to carefully evaluate current weather conditions before starting any outdoor fire, paying particular attention to wind speed and wind direction.
If weather conditions become unsafe or smoke begins affecting neighboring homes, public spaces, or roadways, fires should be extinguished immediately.
Only Approved Materials May Be Burned
The department also emphasized that only approved materials are permitted in open-air fires.
Residents are prohibited from burning plastics, rubber, petroleum products, or other materials that generate excessive smoke or harmful emissions.
Anyone planning an outdoor burn must obtain the required permit before lighting a fire. Information about permit eligibility and the application process is available through the Cambridge Fire Department.
Fire Safety Tips for Outdoor Burning
Before conducting any open-air burning activity, residents should:
- Keep a water source or fire extinguishing equipment nearby.
- Clear the burn area of combustible materials.
- Continuously monitor changing weather conditions.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Completely extinguish the fire before leaving the site.
Community Cooperation Appreciated
The Cambridge Fire Department thanked residents for their patience and cooperation during the temporary suspension, noting that public awareness and responsible fire practices help reduce fire risks throughout the community.
Officials encourage anyone planning an outdoor burn to review permit requirements and safety guidelines before proceeding to help ensure safe burning conditions for everyone.