Open Air Burning

Open air burning is any fire situated outside, whether burned in a container or on the ground. It includes bonfires, fire pits, sky lanterns and the use of various types of outdoor fireplaces.

Richmond Hill's Open Air Burning By-law regulates when, where and how you can have outdoor fires. Open air burning is not permitted within the City of Richmond Hill except under the following conditions:

A permit has been issued by Richmond Hill Fire & Emergency Services.
The open air burning consists of a small, confined fire that is used to cook food on a grill or barbecue.
Propane and natural gas appliances such as propane/gas barbecues, fire pits and fire bowls, that meet the requirement of the Technical Standards and Safety Act, and assembled and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Outdoor fire places and appliances can be purchased at retail outlets throughout the City but it does not mean that their use is allowed under the by-law. These could include fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas, and others. Before buying any of these appliances, you are best to check whether it is allowed.

Why does the City have an Open Air Burning Permit By-law?

The primary reason for implementing an Open Air Burning Permit By-law is public safety. An Open Air Burning Permit process provides an opportunity for Fire and Emergency Services staff to educate the public on safety tips, preventative information, and regulate burning activities.

Is there a fee?

Yes, there is a fee for an open air burning permit. The fee depends on how long you plan to burn for. For more information on the fees view the Open Air Burning Permit Application.

How do I obtain a permit?

A permit is required for any open air burning in Richmond Hill. Complete an Open Air Burning Permit Application online. Call the Fire Prevention Division at 905-883-5444 for more information.

Who can obtain a permit?

You need to be the owner of the property or have permission from the owner of the property where you plan to burn. If the applicant is not the owner of the property, the owner must sign the application as acknowledgement.

What are the requirements to qualify for a permit?

In addition to the requirements of the Open Air Burning By-Law, the following are general conditions that must be met to obtain a permit:

The burn site has a minimum nominal lot width of 31 metres (102’)
The burn pile must be kept a minimum of 15 metres (50’) from any property line, building, structure, fence, roadway, overhang, hedge, tree, etc.
Burning will only occur at the approved location and will only burn one pile at any one time, which shall not exceed 1 m³, or as directed by the Chief Fire Official
Only leaves, branches, raked grass, wood or wood by-products will be burned
Fires are extinguished before leaving the scene and Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services Communications notified
The burning will be supervised at all times
Burning will be between sunrise and sunset of the same day
Burning will be suspended during ban periods

How do I report open air burning activity (complaint or concern)?

There are two ways to report a concern or complaint related to open air burning activities:

For open air burning that has already taken place, please contact Fire Prevention by emailing Fire Prevention or calling 905 883-5444 (select 3 for Fire Prevention), and provide details on the location and time of activity (or activities).
For open air burning that is in progress, contact our dispatch center at 905 883-5444 (select 5 for Dispatch).

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