Fire Pits
Backyard fire pits and fire places are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but they can be dangerous and the smoke and noise can disturb your neighbours.
Fire pits are regulated under the Community Standards Bylaw. Here are a few things you need to do to make sure your fire is safe and legal.
Build a Proper Fire Pit
Within Edmonton city limits, fire pits must:
- Be at least 3 meters (10 feet) from buildings, property lines and anything else that could catch fire.
- Be less than 0.6 meters (2 feet) high.
- Be less than 1 meter (3 feet) wide.
- Have enclosed sides made from bricks, concrete or heavy-gauge metal.
- Have a mesh screen on top to stop sparks (spark-arrestor) with openings smaller than 1.25 cm (1/2 inch).
If your fire pit does not meet these specifications, you will need to have Fire Rescue Services inspect it and issue you a permit. To book an inspection call 780-496-3628.
Burn the Proper Fuels
The only things that can be burned in an outdoor fire pit or fire place are:
- Clean (non-treated), dry wood.
- Charcoal.
- Natural gas.
Burning yard waste, garbage, paper, or anything else creates too much — and possibly even toxic — smoke.
Limit Noise and Smoke
While you may enjoy the smell of wood smoke, not everyone does. Some medical conditions are aggravated by smoke. Make sure that your fire is small and burning clean, dry fuels to limit the amount of smoke drifting on to your neighbours' property.
It is also important to limit the noise from around the fire pit, especially late at night.
Check for Fire Bans
Before starting a fire, check to make sure there are no fire bans in your area. Information about fire bans across the province is available at Alberta Fire Bans.
Report Fire Pit Concerns
If you have a concern about a neighbour’s fire pit, call 311. A Municipal Enforcement Officer or Community Standards Peace Officer will investigate, depending on the problem. You must provide your name, address and telephone number along with the address of the bylaw violation and a description of the problem.
If you believe your neighbour’s burning fire is dangerous, call 911 and Fire Rescue Services will respond immediately.
For more information:
General Emergency Services Contacts
| Telephone | 780-496-3800 |
|---|---|
| TTY | 780-944-5555, code: erdinfo |
| Fax | 780-496-1518 |
| erdinfo@edmonton.ca |
Customer Information and Support Services
Planning and Development Department
5th floor, 10250 - 101 Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 3P4
| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
|---|---|
| Fax | 780-496-6054 |
