Scugog implements the annual Spring burn ban

DAN CEARNS, The Standard

SCUGOG: The Township of Scugog has instituted their annual spring burn ban across the municipality. The ban began on Tuesday, April 11th.

“There will be zero tolerance for burning during the burn ban. Under Part 4, Enforcement and Penalties of the Open-Air Burning By-law 32-18, those having a fire during the burn ban can be charged under the Provincial Offences Act and will also be responsible for the costs associated with Fire Service response. Fire Services will continue to sell burn permits during the burn ban, in anticipation of the burn ban being lifted May 1st,” read a press release from the Township of Scugog.

Under the ban, items such as outdoor fire pits, burn barrels, and chimineas are not allowed to be used. However, outdoor appliances which use natural gas, electricity, propane, or charcoal as their fuel are permitted to be used.

In past weeks, Scugog Fire Chief, Mark Berney has told councillors the Township was delaying the use of the annual burn ban.

“Current conditions continue to allow for a delay in the annual spring burn ban. However, our team continues to monitor and will advise the community using signage, social media channels; and of course, our friends at Corporate Communications should, and when the burn ban can be [implemented],” Chief Berney said, at an April 3rd meeting.

In a statement, Chief Berney explained the purpose of the annual ban.

“Each year, in April, a burn ban is imposed as part of the Township’s open air burning By-Law, to help reduce the risk to residents, firefighters and property. Even though there may be snow or localized flooding, dry grass and debris catch fire easily and the flames spread quickly.”