Calgary Fire Pit Regulations
- Sitting around a fire pit is a favorite summertime backyard activity.fire image by Fotocie from Fotolia.com
Summertime is a great time to be outdoors in Calgary. Long days entice us to stay outside into the evening, perhaps relaxing around a fire pit. Fire pit regulations are a part of the Community Standards Bylaw 5M2004. - A fire pit may be a permanently affixed outdoor fire receptacle, or a portable fire receptacle. A permanently affixed fire pit must be built into the bare ground or set upon noncombustible material such as brick or stone. A portable fire receptacle may be placed on a wooden deck, as long as a noncombustible material such as brick or stone is placed between the portable fire receptacle and the wooden deck.
- All fires must be fully supervised at all times. Fire pits must be situated at least 2 metres (about 6 feet) from the property line, building, fence or any other combustible material. Fire pits may not be located directly beneath any trees or overhanging branches. Flames from the fire must not exceed 1 metre (about 3 feet) in height or width at any time. Flames, embers, sparks or dense smoke must not endanger anyone or cause a nuisance on any neighboring properties. A means of extinguishing the fire must be on hand at all times. Fires are permitted between 10 a.m. and 1 a.m. Prior to leaving the fire, the fire must be completely extinguished, leaving only cold ashes. Only clean, dry firewood may be burned in fire pits. Treated or painted lumber or lumber products containing glue or resin may not be burned. Wet or unseasoned wood, leaves, brush, yard waste, garbage, rubber, tires, plastic and animal carcasses or parts may not be burned.
The Fire Department has the power to enact a fire ban. The Fire Department, Police or a Bylaw Officer may ask you to extinguish your fire when a fire ban is in effect, or for noncompliance with bylaw regulations. Fines for not complying with regulations range from $500 to $5,000. Repeat offenses may result in a fire being banned on a premises. To report a problem or infraction, call 9-1-1 if the concern is an emergency. For nonemergencies, from within Calgary city limits, call 3-1-1. From outside Calgary, call 403-268-2489. Deaf and Hard of Hearing, call TTY 403-268-4889. - Fire pit regulations are part of the City of Calgary Community Standards Bylaw 5M2004 sections 11-18. As bylaws are subject to amendment, contact the City Clerk's office at 403-268-5861 for a certified copy, or consult the City of Calgary website for current information.
