Burning Permits and the dangers of grass fires

Jun 21, 2022

The City of Edmundston's Fire & Safety Department informs you that outdoor burning is permitted, under certain conditions, including obtaining a free burning permit. To obtain this permit, residents of Edmundston must apply via the municipal website during office hours, Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. People who live in Local Service Districts should contact the Department of Natural Resources at (506) 453-3826.

Municipal regulations

By-law 34R2013 Fire Prevention regulates outdoor fires on municipal territory. It contains regulations stating that no one may light a fire or allow a fire to be lit outdoors, unless they have obtained a permit from the Fire & Safety Department. However, no permit will be required for outdoor fires that meet these two criteria:

• a fire for an extinguishing or prevention exercise by a fire department
• a fire in a fireplace or in a non-combustible container equipped with a spark screen, for example, in your backyard

Why do I need a burning permit?

It’s important that a City of Edmundston Fire & Safety firefighter confirms certain informations and goes on site to see potential dangers to human health and the environment. There is also a checklist to validate before being allowed to light an open fire:

• burn only authorized dry materials
• do not make a fire when weather conditions prevent smoke dispersion
• avoid burning if the smoke can impair visibility on the roadway
• stay close and watch the fire at all times
• tell your neighbors that you intend to light a fire

Article 4.02 of the Fire Prevention Municipal by-law also underlines five sub-categories to be respected at all times, under penalty of receiving a possible fine:

• the diameter of the fire should not exceed 1 meter
• the fire must be at least 3 meters from any building or property line
• burnt materials must not contain any toxic material
• the flame must in no case exceed 1 meter in height and
• the fire should never be left unattended or disturb the neighborhood

Always exercise caution

It is essential to exercise caution and follow the rules in order to avoid fire risks. A small act of negligence can be very dangerous for you and your neighborhood.

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CONTACT: Fire Safety Department, 506.739.2117