Winnipeg, MB - Due to dry weather conditions in the Winnipeg area which increase the risk of dangerous fires, such as grass, brush and wildfires, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) reminds all residents that all open-air fires are temporarily prohibited.
A temporary ban on issuing open-air burn permits is in effect to prevent the accidental spread of fire, as per The City of Winnipeg - Fire Prevention By-Law No. 35/2017. This ban will be lifted as soon as environmental conditions improve. Fires in approved fire pits on residential property are prohibited when wind conditions exceed 25 km/h.
The WFPS has wildfire resources and is well-equipped to combat grass, brush, and wildfires. The WFPS’s Wildland Unit uses specialized equipment including compressed air-foam wildland truck, pumper tankers for water supply, and quads to access otherwise difficult to reach locations rapidly.
The City has a set of standards and requirements for all open-air fires regulated under the Fire Prevention By-law. Permits are required for open-air fires such as:
- Bonfires;
- Burning of crop residue;
- Disposal of wood; and,
- Warming fires.
The City also has a set of regulations regarding outdoor fire receptacles such as fire pits, fire places, and outdoor BBQs. Note that open fires within approved outdoor receptacles on public or private property are not permitted when the wind speed exceeds 25 km/h.
The rules regarding fires within approved outdoor fire receptacles are set out in The City of Winnipeg - Neighbourhood Liveability By-law 1/2008, part 6.
For more information on open-air burn permits, visit Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service – Open Air Fires.