Following fire bans and restrictions imposed by Peterborough and Haliburton counties, the City of Kawartha Lakes is also implementing a municipal-wide burn ban effective at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8th.
Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Services is implementing the ban due to extremely dry conditions across Kawartha Lakes. These conditions can be extremely hazardous and so residents need to be cautious, including by being mindful of actions such as not disposing of cigarette butts on the side of the road, in park and trail areas, and even in small planters.
“It can sometimes take upwards of 10 to 15 minutes before a cigarette fire becomes noticeable in dry vegetation,” says Fire Chief Mark Pankhurst, “but once the fire is ignited, it can be mere seconds before the grass or even a field is covered in flames.”
There will be zero tolerance for any burning during the ban. All regular burn permits, including annual permits, are suspended until further notice and will not be issued during the ban.
Campfires including outdoor fire pits, burn barrels, chimineas, and other portable open air fire devices intended for backyard bonfires are not permitted to be used during a burn ban.
Fireworks are also not permitted to be discharged during the burn ban, with no exceptions.
Outdoor appliances listed for use in Canada that use propane or natural gas as a fuel supply are allowed to be used on a resident’s property during an imposed burn ban. For example, gas, electric, and charcoal barbeques are permitted to be used during a burn ban, as long as they are done so with supervision at all time.
However, they may not be permitted in some condominium and apartment complexes, so check the building’s rules to confirm before using. Be sure to review and follow all safety precautions noted with the appliance.
The ban may not apply to those with agricultural or special burn permits, as special conditions already apply to these permits. However, safe practices should be followed at all times for those authorized to burn.
The minimum fine for contravening the burn ban is $485. Under section 8.03 of the city’s by-law 2016-110, those setting a fire during a burn ban can be charged under the Provincial Offences Act and will also be responsible for the costs incurred for fire service response and potential fire suppression efforts.
Residents who wish to lodge a complaint about someone contravening the burn ban can call 705-324-2191.
