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Open Burning

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All man-made fires within the District of Houston boundaries are subject to the rules and regulations set out under the District of Houston's Open Burning & Air Quality Bylaw No. 947, 2006. Campfires, barbecues and fire pits with a diameter of less than 90 centimetres (~35.5 inches).

Open burning may only be conducted with a permit issued by the Fire Department on lots which are larger than one hectare in area. Residents can apply for a permit from the District of Houston's Fire Chief.

The person responsible for any open burning is liable to any and all damages caused by open burning, except for any materials which are burned in accordance with the permit. Open burning must also only occur under the continuous supervision of a responsible person in order to prevent the fire from getting out of control. In addition, open burning may only continue for a maximum of seventy-two hours, after which the fire shall be extinguished in accordance with the bylaw.

Please note that the Fire Chief may suspend, cancel, or restrict the conditions of a permit due to hazardous conditions or adverse weather conditions. Open burning is also prohibited while an air quality advisory is in effect, and any actively burning fires must be extinguished as soon as reasonably possible after and air quality advisory is issued.