Protecting our community: Kingston Fire & Rescue implements measures to reduce unauthorized open-air fires

Three years after the implementation of the Open-Air Fires Bylaw in April 2021, Kingston Fire & Rescue has reported a significant reduction in open-air fire responses. However, unauthorized fires still occur and present a risk to the community. Open-air fires include any fire that is outside a building, such as outdoor appliances (fire pits and fire bowls), outdoor fireplaces, campfires, agricultural and brush fires.  

“As the weather warms up and people spend more time outside, we want to ensure everyone stays safe and obtains the required open-air fire permit,” said Kevin Donaldson, Deputy Fire Chief, Kingston Fire & Rescue. “Open-air fires can quickly spread and become a dangerous situation.” 

While Kingston Fire and Rescue remains focused on education, enforcement measures, including issuing invoices for unauthorized open-air fires, may be used. Invoices are issued to cover the costs associated with responding to unauthorized fires at a rate of $559.86 for each responding fire truck. Fire permits are free and easily available on the City of Kingston website. 

Recognizing that the City of Kingston has rural and urban areas, open-air fire zones have been established to allow certain fires to be safely held in some areas without creating hazardous situations or undue environmental risks. Community members can refer to the map on the City of Kingston website to see the fire zones and types of fires permitted in each zone.