Effective 1 p.m. today, Thursday May 18, Category 2 and 3 open burning is prohibited in the Southeast Fire Centre, which includes the Elk Valley.

At this time, campfires (Category 1) that are 0.5m high x 0.5m wide or smaller are still allowed. However, City of Fernie residents are reminded that a permit is required to have a backyard campfire in the city and that your Backyard Fire Pit Permit must be renewed annually.

Backyard Fire Pit Permits allow residents to have a backyard campfire and burn clean, dry, untreated firewood for personal enjoyment.

It is illegal to light, ignite or start any outside fire within the City of Fernie Municipal Boundary unless a fire permit has been issued by the Director of Fire and Emergency Services.

Having an unpermitted backyard campfire can result in a fine of up to $1,000.

A new permit is $30, there is no fee for a renewal without any changes. The permit expires one year from the date of issue.

You can find the requirements for a backyard fire pit, and the application on the city’s website.

NOTE: Setting-off of fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels and air curtain burners are also prohibited starting Thursday.

e-KNOW file photo

City of Fernie

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