Tis the season for backyard cleanup.
But when it comes to ridding your outdoor space of downed sticks and dead vegetation, fire isn’t the way to go.
The London Fire Department has issued a reminder to Londoners that burning backyard waste is not only potentially dangerous, it could get you in trouble with bylaw officers.
“Londoners need to be aware the burning of leaves, brush or yard debris on their property is not allowed under the City of London’s open air burning bylaw,” said Deputy Fire Chief Matt Hepditch. “Failing to comply with the open air burning bylaw may result in charges under the open air burning bylaw and the Ontario Fire Code.”
Hepditch noted that limiting the level of flammable vegetation surrounding your home is good practice. To dispose of the waste in a safe, environmentally responsible way, he recommends either composting it, taking it to one of the city’s EnviroDepots, or placing it at the curb for pickup on a designated “green week.”
While the burning of yard materials is prohibited in the city, the bylaw does allow for outdoor cooking fires and approved backyard fire pits. Those who choose to set an open-air fire are required to only burn commercially produced charcoal, briquettes, or clean, dry seasoned wood and not create nuisance smoke.
“We need everyone to make fire safety a priority. Open air burning, especially if left unattended, can become difficult to control and can result in a serious widespread fire,” said Hepditch.
More information about London’s open-air burning bylaw can be found by clicking here.
