Kitchener keeps fire pits
Posted Aug 28, 2012 02:09:41 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
After an out-pour of community support for campfires, Kitchener councillors have added a log into the pit, instead of pouring cold water over the coals.
City staff will work on a bylaw to be discussed by March 1st, and to come into effect April 1st.
Councillor Berry Vrbanovic brought forward the motion, which passed 8-3. “Nothing we do is going to legislate common sense … and respect amongst neighbours,” the Ward 2 Councillor said.
The bylaw will let the city go after nuisance burners, while still allowing others to responsibly enjoy backyard fires.
Director of Bylaw Enforcement Shayne Turner explained, “We could, on an individual property basis, revoke (property owners) right to have a fire. That would be invoking a ban on a specific property as opposed to banning all properties.”
Staff has also been directed to increase enforcement, and to ask the province about putting in place a ticketing system for offenders.
Also in the draft bylaw, the time limits will be relaxed by an hour, allowing campfires to start at 6:00 pm and run until 11:00 pm, instead of 7:00 pm until 11:00 pm.
On top of all that, council has reversed a decision made in late June to have fire pits setback at least 6 metres. Meaning, a minimum distance of 5 metres is once again an acceptable distance from any structure. Thanks to a friendly amendment by Councillor Kelly Galloway, this part has been made effective immediately.
Another friendly amendment brought forward by Councillor Bil Ioannidis asks staff to look into starting an outdoor gas fireplace program, to help interest residents in an alternative to wood burning campfires.
