Annual April burn ban in effect for Kawartha Lakes starting April 1st

KAWARTHA LAKES: In an effort to mitigate fire hazards, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service has issued its annual April burn ban. The burn ban will be in effect as of 12 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1st.

During this period, all Regular Annual Burn Permits will be temporarily suspended, in adherence to both April's annual burn ban and any municipal-wide burn bans in effect. Exceptions to the burn ban may include Agricultural or Special Burn Permits, though strict adherence to safety protocols is urged.

"Even if there’s still snow on the ground or the potential for localized flooding in certain areas, dry grass and debris can catch fire very easily in April. The annual April burn ban helps protect the community and our firefighters,” said Fire Chief Terry Jones.

According to Section 8.03 of By-Law 2016-110, individuals violating the burn ban may face charges under the Provincial Offences Act and will be liable for associated fire suppression costs.

Residents can verify the status of the burn ban by contacting 1-888-822-2225 or visiting the Burn Ban and Permits page on our website.

Fire Chief Jones, prioritizing resident and environmental safety, emphasized the potential to extend the burn ban beyond April if conditions remain unfavourable for open-air burning.

Residents will receive notification through a news release and social media posts once the burn ban is lifted. See the Staying Connected section below to learn how you can be the first to know about the burn ban lifting.

Thank you for your help in keeping our community safe.

For further information, please contact the Fire Prevention Office by phone at 705-324-5731 or by email at fireprevention@kawarthalakes.ca. Municipal Law Enforcement Office: 705-324-9411 extension 1212 or toll-free 1-888-822-2225 or by email at bylawcomplaints@kawarthalakes.ca. Burn Complaints (Kawartha Lakes Police and Fire Dispatch Non-Emergency): 705-324-2191 during active burning only