Thunder Bay Fire Rescue reminds residents that all outdoor burning permits inclusive of Open (brush) and Recreational (fire pit) in the City of Thunder Bay must be approved as per the Ontario Fire Code.

Unapproved burning due to not having a permit or breaking the terms and conditions of the fire permit will result in a Cease to Burn Order and a minimum fine of $583.05 as per the user fee bylaw.

Conditions to burn are as follows:

  • Open Fire Burning Permits (brush piles) are valid from January 1 to May 31 (inclusive) and October 1 to December 31.
  • Recreational Permits (fire pit) are one- or two-year renewal, permit to burn from 5:00pm to midnight.
  • An annual fee of $43 will be collected for all Fire Permits which includes the inspection fee.
  • Burning permits will only be approved once the site has been inspected by an Officer of Thunder Bay Fire Rescue.
  • Approved burning site shall not be altered without approval and inspection by the Fire Service.
  • No burning in wind greater than 16 kilometres per hour or gusting conditions.
  • Permits are non-transferable.
  • Burning suspension may occur because of a legitimate smoke nuisance complaint or unsafe conditions.
  • Burning suspension may occur because of hazardous fire conditions, or a fire ban that has been issued by the Fire Chief. All permit holders will be notified by email if a fire ban occurs and no burning will be allowed until the ban is lifted. A Cease to Burn fine will be issued for burns that occur during a fire ban.

For more information residents are encouraged to visit: www.thunderbay.ca/fire.

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Contact:             Kevin Anderson, Division Chief – Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, 807-628-4921; kevin.anderson@thunderbay.ca