The City of Winnipeg has established revised standards and requirements for all open-air fires regulated under the Fire Prevention By-law. These standards include specific Bylaw requirements for residential open-air fires in various permanently constructed or portable receptacles such as Fire Pits, Fire Bowls, Chimineas and other outdoor receptacles.

Where can I get a brochure and fire pit regulatory guidelines?

Hard copies of brochures and guidelines may be obtained at any Fire Station. It is advised that you visit the nearest one in your area, as the open-air burning site may require an inspection and approval by a Fire Department employee.

Recreational Residential Open Air Fires Guidelines

Are any permits required for a recreational residential open-air fire?

That depends! In most instances a permit will not be required. However, a "special" permit may be issued, if a property is unable to comply with all the requirements of the By-law.
A Fire Inspector will conduct an inspection of the non-compliant property and if the Inspector determines that an open air fire at that location will not cause an undue fire hazard, a "special" Recreational Residential Open Air Fire Permit may be obtained from the Fire Prevention Branch Office located at 185 King Street.

Who is responsible for obtaining the "special" recreational residential open-air fire permit if required?

The owner, occupier, or person in charge of the premises. If the property is rented, the tenant must provide written consent from the owner or owner's agent, granting permission for the intended use.

What is included in the regulatory guidelines?

Some of the requirements for Recreational Residential Open-Air Fires include but are not necessarily limited to:

• retaining the permit at the site of the receptacle and provide it for examination if so requested by a Fire Department employee
• ensuring the receptacle is kept a minimum of 3 meters (10 feet) away from any combustibles
• burning only dry seasoned wood. Burning of garbage, plastic, rubber, grass, tree prunings, brush, painted or treated wood is strictly prohibited
• ensuring the fire is under constant adult supervision
• not permitting any open-air fires to be ignited under wind conditions over 25 kph (15 mph)
• limiting any open-air fires in size so that they are easily controllable by the person in charge of the open-air fire
• ensuring that a fire extinguisher, garden hose, sand or other suitable means of extinguishment is readily available at the fire sight.
• ensuring any open-air fire is completely extinguished before leaving the site.
• phoning the Winnipeg Fire Department at 9-1-1 should the open-air fire become uncontrollable by extending beyond the receptacle of origin.

Are any permits required?

Building Permits may be required for permanently constructed Outdoor Fireplaces or Outdoor Barbeques. Contact:

City of Winnipeg Zoning and Permits Branch
#31-30 Fort Street, R3C 4X7
Fax: 204-986-6347.

Remember, a By-law Requirements brochure and fire pit regulatory guidelines regarding the construction, location and safe use of fire pits and outdoor solid fuel receptacles may be obtained at any Fire Hall or on line.