KAWARTHA LAKES-Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service has issued its annual municipal-wide April burn ban. The burn ban will be in effect as of 12am on Monday April 1, 2024.
During this period, all Regular Annual Burn Permits will be temporarily suspended, in adherence to both April’s annual burn ban and any municipal-wide burn bans in effect.
Fire Chief Terry Jones highlighted the necessity of the need for an April burn ban, stating, “Despite any remaining snow or potential spring run-off, the risk of rapid fire spread due to dry grass and debris remains significant in the month of April. This burn ban is vital in minimizing risk to residents and firefighters.”
According to Section 8.03 of By-Law 2016-110, individuals violating the burn ban may face charges under the Provincial Offences Act and will be liable for associated fire suppression costs.
Exceptions to the burn ban may include Agricultural or Special Burn Permits, though strict adherence to safety protocols is urged.
Residents can verify the status of the burn ban by contacting 1-888-822-2225 extension 8 or visiting the Burn Ban, Permits, and By-Laws page on our website.
Fire Chief Jones, prioritizing resident and environmental safety, emphasized the potential for an extension of the burn ban beyond April if conditions remain unfavorable for open-air burning.
Residents will receive notification through a news release and social media posts once the burn ban is lifted. See the Staying Connected section below to learn how you can be the first to know about the burn ban lifting.
For further information, please contact:
- Fire Prevention Office: 705-324-5731 or by email at fireprevention@kawarthalakes.
ca - Municipal Law Enforcement Office: 705-324-9411 extension 1212 or toll-free 1-888-822-2225 or by email at bylawcomplaints@kawarthalakes.
ca - Burn Complaints (Kawartha Lakes Police and Fire Dispatch Non-Emergency): 705-324-2191 during active burning only
