Certain types of small fires are permitted in the District of Coldstream without a permit, provided they are conducted safely and in accordance with the District of Coldstream Fire Protection Bylaw No. 1852, 2025.
Fires Permitted Without a Permit
Outdoor Fireplaces
Outdoor Fireplaces must:
- be certified by a qualified body (i.e. CSA)
- meet the construction requirements of the Fire Protection Bylaw
- be located more than 3 metres from combustible materials
Small Contained Fires
Small, backyard fires must not exceed .5 meters in diameter and .5 meters in height, and must not burn any prohibited materials, as listed in the Bylaw.
Outdoor Burning Appliances / Portable Campfire Apparatus
Outdoor Burning Appliances / Portable Campfire Apparatus are permitted, providing that they are:
- CSA or ULC rated devices
- used safely
- operated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations
- only burning briquettes/charcoal, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel
- located more than 1.5 metres from combustible materials
Fire Safety Requirements
Never leave a fire unattended.
A competent person must be in charge of the fire at all times while it is burning or smouldering, until it is completely extinguished.
The person responsible for the fire must have sufficient fire protection equipment available to prevent the fire from getting out of control, causing damage, or becoming dangerous to life or property.
Burning in Parks and Other Public Spaces
Fires are generally not permitted on highways, trails, squares, parks or other outdoor public spaces within the District without authorization. However, outdoor burning appliances and portable campfire apparatus may be used in District parks provided they:
- Are used safely
- Are operated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations; and
- Comply with all other requirements of the Fire Protection Bylaw.
Before You Light a Fire
Before starting any fire, make sure you:
- Know what materials are permitted to be burned
- Have the required clearance from buildings, vegetation and property boundaries
- Have appropriate fire suppression equipment readily available
- Keep a competent person with the fire at all times
- Fully extinguish the fire before leaving it
Always check for current fire restrictions or prohibitions before burning. Provincial restrictions may apply in addition to District of Coldstream requirements.