FIRE PREVENTION NOTICE: Immediate Ban on All Open Air Burning in City of Hamilton

Crista Cooper
Aug 14
2 min read

Heads Up Ward 11: Due to current dry weather conditions and extreme temperatures, the Hamilton Fire Department has issued an immediate ban on all open air burning within the City of Hamilton, effective immediately and until further notice.

What's Banned

The following activities are now prohibited throughout Hamilton:

Recreational Fires

Campfires and backyard fire pits
All recreational burning activities

Controlled Burns

Burning of clean wood and brush
Controlled grass burns
Use of outdoor wood-burning appliances (including chimineas)

Important: This ban suspends all previously approved Open Air Burning Permits.

What's Still Allowed

Barbecues and gas-fired appliances may continue to be used with caution
Residents should ensure all smokers' materials are fully extinguished before disposal in proper, non-combustible containers

Why This Ban is Necessary

Fire Chief Dave Cunliffe explains: "This proactive measure is necessary to reduce the risk of uncontrolled grass and wildfires, and ensure public safety. We would like to thank all City of Hamilton residents for their anticipated co-operation complying with this ban and helping to protect our community during these exceptionally dry and hot conditions."

The Hamilton Fire Department continuously monitors climatic and environmental conditions.

With the current combination of:

Dry weather conditions
Continued forecast of extreme temperatures
Absence of appreciable rainfall in the near future

This immediate action helps protect our community from elevated fire risks.

Enforcement and Penalties

Important Legal Notice: Any person found conducting open air burning in contravention of this ban is guilty of an offence and subject to charges being filed in Provincial Offences Court.

Stay Informed

The Hamilton Fire Department will continue monitoring weather patterns and fire risk levels. A media release will be issued when the ban is lifted.

For More Information:

Visit: hamilton.ca/fire
Follow: Hamilton Fire Department on X @HamiltonFireDep

The Hamilton Fire Department thanks all residents for their cooperation during this ban. Together, we can help keep our community safe during these challenging weather conditions.