(Angie Rolheiser/northeastNOW Staff)

By Mat Barrett

Backyard Fires

Backyard fires allowed during COVID-19, Melfort Fire Chief says

Apr 23, 2020 | 5:00 PM

As the snow melts, and the weather warms up, fire pits are going to start making their way out of sheds.

According to Melfort Fire Chief Shaun Stewart, we must still adhere to the provincial governments rules and regulations regarding COVID-19.

“So you can still use your fire pit in the City of Melfort, as long as you have your fire pit permit during COVID-19,” Stewart said. “And again, adhering to the no more than 10 people in the gathering, as long as it allows for the appropriate physical distancing of two metres per person.”

There’s numerous rules to follow to make sure everyone is safe while using their fire pits. Firstly, fire pits must be made of non-combustible material. Products such as clay brick, concrete or thick sheet metal are all approved to use as the fire box. That fire box is not allowed to to exceed 30 inches in any dimension. Fire pits must also have a covering that has openings of no more than half an inch.

All of the rules relating to fire pits in Melfort are on the back of the permits that a resident would get before being allowed to have a backyard fire. Stewart said there are over 20 for someone to be aware of.

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“Honestly, if the fire department, or someone designated by us shows up at their house due to a complaint about the fire,” he said. “‘Well I didn’t know’, won’t be acceptable by any means, because they have to sign the permit.”

Permits are available at City Hall, even though it is closed to the public for the time being. Stewart said there are ways around it by calling City Hall during their hours to set up a way to acquire your permit.

Even those who had permits in previous years must get one again this year.

“If it’s one that’s been inspected by myself or the other city inspector, and says yes it’s ok then they can just renew it from last year,” Stewart told northeastNOW. “If it’s a new fire pit, then myself, I’d have to come out and have a look at it, ok it and then we’d be able to get you a permit that way.”

Stewart encouraged people to “be smart with what they are doing”. He said fires are a great way to enjoy an evening outside during the spring and summer.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6