Public Service Announcement
Open Fires Not Permitted Within Municipality
Information for the Public
November 4, 2022
The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay would like to remind the public that the lighting of open fires within the municipal boundaries of Happy Valley-Goose Bay is not permitted at any time as per its Open Fires Policy.
During Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night the public is reminded that as per the policy, the public must adhere to the following conditions:
- The fire must be contained in a non-combustible enclosure with a surface area of not more than 60cm square.
- The fire enclosure must be not less than 5m from any combustible surface and the bottom is on non-combustible material.
- The top must be covered with a suitable spark arrester screen, as per National Building Code/ National Fire Code.
- A source of water must be readily available in the event of an emergency.
- The burning must be supervised by an adult at all times.
- Only wood or by-products of wood may be burned. Ordinary trash, plastics, etc., shall not be burned due to toxicity and odor of smoke.
- If any complaints are received from neighbors etc., about smoke problems, the fire will have to be extinguished by the person starting the fire.
- During the periods of high or extreme fire index or high winds, the above guidelines are void and no fires are permitted.
- At any time, the municipal enforcement officer or a member from the fire department may inspect your fire enclosure and area surrounding it.
- If a more serious fire results from the enclosed fire and it is proven so, the guilty party may be charged with all associated damage.
- If any one of the above guidelines is not adhered to, the person may be charged with non-compliance of the town fire regulations.
In addition, when disposing of grass from raking or mowing, please dispose in the proper manner by using the Town’s Yard Waste Area on Corte Real Road or the municipal landfill. The improper disposal of grass clippings could combust and potentially start a fire.
The Town is asking the public to be responsible this fire season and to respect the Town’s Open Fires Policy.