BFES: Permits are Required for Backyard Fire Pit Use

 As we are looking forward to enjoying warmer weather in our own backyards, Brandon Fire & Emergency Services Prevention Division is reminding residents that if your activity includes sitting around a fire pit, you should ensure your fire pit is in compliance with the following regulations:

• To have an open-air fire in your yard, you must first have an approved permit. Before a permit is approved, an inspection of the proposed site/appliance by Brandon Fire & Emergency Services is required, which can be requested at no cost.
• The permit does not have to be renewed annually. A new application is required if property ownership has changed or if the original application has changed.
• If you are renting the property, you need a letter of permission from the property owner.
• Before submitting your application, be sure your fire pit appliance is within the height and width restrictions and has enclosed sides made of approved material.
• A spark arrestor mesh screen, made of metal, with openings no larger than half an inch is to be used. The brick, stone, concrete, or heavy gauge metal must be separated from grass and any other vegetation by at least six (6) inches by means of clean earth, sand, gravel or non-combustible medium.
• At least five (5) feet of clearance must be maintained from the fire pit edge and buildings, property lines or other combustibles.
• Grass, rubbish, and leaves cannot be burnt within the City limits.
• If fire pits are used without the necessary permit, offenders may be ticketed without warning. The fee for failing to comply with the policy is $400.00, as per the Open Air Fire Policy 30.

Fire permits and forms can be found at City of Brandon – Fire Permits & Forms.