Northern York Region municipalities issue fire ban

YorkRegion.com
Aug. 11, 2016
By Simon Martin

The northern six municipalities in York Region have imposed a fire ban effective Aug. 11.

To prevent potential fire risk in the community, the towns of Aurora, Newmarket, Stouffville, East Gwillimbury and Georgina and the Township of King have deemed a fire ban necessary, due to an extended period of dry and humid weather conditions. 

Outdoor, open-air burning is not permitted during the fire ban. This includes campfires, chimney fireplaces, fireworks and any other kind of outdoor burning.

All fire permits will be cancelled until the fire ban has been lifted. Residents can still use natural gas or propane barbecues and outdoor appliances, as long as they have an on and off switch or valve. 

The fire ban will be in place until the towns have declared it safe to end. Residents can monitor their town's websites and social media accounts for any updates. 

Anyone having an open-air fire while a fire ban is in place can be fined. Should the fire get out of control and emergency fire response is required, the person responsible for the fire can be charged the full firefighting costs.