Greater Sudbury Fire Services Chief Joseph Nicholls has confirmed the open air burning ban in Greater Sudbury will be lifted in conjunction with the province's decision to lift the Restricted Fire Zone.
The RFZ was a proactive action to protect firefighter resources impacted by COVID-19 and to reduce the risk of human-caused fires across the Province.
In summary, both the provincial RFZ and Greater Sudbury's local burning ban will be lifted as of Saturday.
"I am very pleased to hear the provincial government has lifted the fire ban and that effective Saturday, residents can begin to enjoy one of the activities that makes our northern lifestyle so great,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger.
“I have asked our Fire Chief to also remove our local municipal fire ban to match the province's announcement. Please enjoy this outdoor activity safely, with only the people who live in your household. Although we are making great progress on returning back to our normal lives, we must continue to stay home as much as possible to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 in our community.”
The city continues to closely monitor the fire hazard status and will inform residents should the fire ban be reinstated.
While campfires, chiminea fireplaces, crop residue fires, and other types of outdoor burning are permitted, please be safe and cautious around any outdoor fires, and never leave a fire unattended.
Earlier this month, City Council amended the Fireworks By-Law (2011 -190) to remove both Victoria Day and Canada Day as permitted days for 2020.
While the fire ban is lifted, residents are still prohibited from setting off fireworks on those days this year. The decision to ban fireworks on Victoria Day and July 1, 2020, helps discourage the potential for large social gatherings, in line with provincial orders to limit gatherings of five or more people.
For updates on the current fire ban status, visit www.greatersudbury.ca/
