New Fire Services Bylaw adopted by Whitecourt
Posted on:A new Fire Services Bylaw was approved at the March 24 Regular Council Meeting. The new bylaw consolidates a number of other bylaws, and outlines roles and responsibilities of the Whitecourt Fire Department.
The Fire Services Bylaw includes legislation for residential fire pits and fire permits; includes updated provisions for fire restrictions and fire bans; and, includes fees and charges for services provided by the Whitecourt Fire Department, including fire inspections, fire investigations and incident responses.
“As our community grows, it’s important for our bylaws to be updated and modernized to reflect current legislation and industry standards,” said Director of Community Safety Lee Hardman. “Over the next several months, we will be working to educate the community on how they will be impacted by the new bylaw, and what residents can do to help keep our community safe from fire hazards.”
Highlights include:
- Fire Permits will be issued in the following categories: fire pit/fireplace; campgrounds; fireworks; special events; and, open burn.
- Fire Pits:
- Fire Pit Permits will be valid for the person named on the property.
- Clearance from the property line for acceptable fire pits has been reduced (depending on the size).
- A listing of materials that can and cannot be burned.
- Fire Restrictions and Bans:
- Listing of appliances allowed for use during a fire ban.
- Fees are now in effect for the following:
- All Fire Permits (fire pit, campground, fireworks, special events, and open burn);
- Fire Inspection;
- Fire Safety Plan Review & Inspection;
- Occupant Load Calculation;
- Fire Investigation;
- Incident Responses for when:
- A fire which a person is convicted of arson under the Criminal Code of Canada;
- An unregulated release of dangerous goods;
- A fire which is intentionally set, with or without a permit, and becomes out of control or some other emergency results thereof.
Information on the new regulations will be posted on the Whitecourt website, and an education campaign will be shared throughout the spring and summer on highlights of the Bylaw.