Windsor Fire and Rescue Chief James Waffles says they're still responding to too many backyard fires.
In 2023, a bylaw was passed in the City of Windsor banning all open burns.
"It has been a problem for a number of years. We're seeing a slight decrease but not where we need to be," said Waffle.
As part of the bylaw, if fire crews are called to respond to the fire, residents could be issued a bill of around $700.
"It costs us to go out and respond to these nuisance calls. It takes our crews away from real emergencies. It was passed as a bylaw under these rules in 2023 and we have issued a number of warnings," said Waffle.
He stated the rules under the bylaw are very clear.
"Basically, cooking devices only, natural gas, propane appliances, things like that are permitted," said Waffle. "No open burning, not backyard fire pits, no wood, no debris, no grass, no leaves."
To view the bylaw and find out more about what is prohibited, visit the City of Windsor's website.
