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West Lincoln Fire Chief Tim Hofsink has determined that the risk of fire has adequately decreased. Effective immediately, the Open-Air Burn Ban is lifted for Township properties, and all valid 2025 West Lincoln burn permits are hereby reinstated.

Despite recent rainfall, conditions are still dry. Permit holders should be cautious when having an open air fire, to ensure they are burning in compliance with the conditions of their burn permits. A burn ban may be reinstated if dry conditions continue or if air quality advisories are put in place.

The Township of West Lincoln prohibits open-air burning unless you obtain a burn permit. As always, conditions of open air fire permits must comply with By-law 2021-58, a By-law to prohibit and regulate the setting of open air fires within the Township of West Lincoln.

Important considerations

  • Recreational fires require a minimum clearance of 5 meters (approximately 16 feet) in all directions between the fire and any building, structure, fence, property line, roadway, overhead wire, or combustible material
  • Many residential properties are not large enough to meet the clearance requirements for a lawful open air fire
  • Any person who sets or maintains an open air fire is responsible for ensuring that there are sufficient clearances around the fire
  • Despite having a valid permit, it is unlawful to set or maintain an open air fire that causes smoke, odour, ashes, or embers to invade a neighbouring property thereby creating a nuisance
  • Residents that fail to comply with the regulations will result in fines and/or fees of $750 per hour for each fire truck that responds to extinguish an unsafe or unlawful fire

Burn permits are valid for the calendar year, and expire on December 31 of each year. Apply for your burn permit online.

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