If you must burn, make sure you know the rules for outdoor fires and follow safe practices. Among forest fires caused by people, an average of over 200 fires each year are caused by rural residents. If a forest fire results because you have used fire improperly, you could be held responsible for the costs of putting out the fire and for any property damage that occurs. Regulations describe conditions under which outdoor fires are allowed in Ontario. If your municipality does not have special burning rules, follow the instructions in this brochure for safe burning.
Any fire is more likely to get out of control on a hot, dry, or windy day.
Burn during the coolest, dampest and calmest time of the day - two hours before sunset, or later. Make sure fires are out two hours after sunrise, or earlier. Keep Your Fire Small Small fires can be controlled by one person using hand tools and water. Keep your pile of wood, brush, or wood by-products to be burned less than two metres in diameter and less than two metres high. Choose a Safe Site Woody debris fires often turn into forest fires when the fire escapes by running a long the ground away from the pile or burn area.