Open Fire Ban Considered in Kitchener
Posted Jun 24, 2012 06:40:02 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Many people enjoy the glowing warmth of an open fire, but that might soon not be an option for Kitchener residents.
Last year the city received 223 complaints about these fires, most of which were concerns about smoke. Another 100 complaints have already been made so far this year.
For residents with allergies, asthma, and other health concerns, the smoke poses a serious issue. The Head of Kitchener Bylaw, Shayne Turner, tells 570 News, “It’s more about the nuisance and the health effects. The other part of it of course is the cost and the resources going into determining if it is in fact an illegal fire.”
There are bylaws already in place, to which if violated can result in a fine of up to $5,000.
In case open-air fires are banned, Turner suggests “There are certain types of devices out there now that would be legal because they’re smokeless, like natural gas fireplaces and pits … where people want the ambiance of seeing a flame but not with the smoke that comes with it.”
City Councillors have asked for a report on open-air fires from the fire chief and the head of bylaw enforcement. City Council meets tomorrow, June 25th, to discuss the issue.
