Ottawa residents can once again light their backyard fire pits and chimineas after the city's open fire burn ban was officially lifted following a stretch of welcome rainfall.
The ban had been put in place after Ottawa fire services were stretched thin responding to an unusually high number of brush fires — 24 in total — in the span of just one week. Dry conditions and spring winds had created a dangerous combination, prompting authorities to restrict open burning across the city as a precautionary measure.
Why the Ban Was Imposed
Spring is traditionally one of the higher-risk seasons for brush fires in the Ottawa region. Dead grass and dried-out leaf litter from the previous fall can ignite quickly, and strong seasonal winds can spread flames before crews have a chance to contain them. With 24 fires keeping Ottawa firefighters on the move, city officials moved quickly to put a burn ban in order to prevent the situation from escalating further.
Open fire bans in Ottawa typically restrict the use of fire pits, chimineas, and any outdoor burning on private property. Residents who violate these bans can face fines, so officials take compliance seriously.
Rainfall Brings Relief
Recent rainfall across the Ottawa area helped bring ground moisture levels back up to a safer range, giving fire officials enough confidence to lift the restrictions. While the exact timing of rainfall events can vary across the region, the precipitation was sufficient to dramatically reduce the risk of brush fires spreading uncontrolled.
For many Ottawa homeowners, the timing is welcome news — spring and early summer are prime seasons for backyard entertaining, and an outdoor fire is often the centrepiece of a warm evening with friends and family.
Staying Safe Around Open Fires
Even with the ban lifted, Ottawa Fire Services typically reminds residents to follow safe burning practices year-round:
- Never leave a fire unattended. Always have a responsible adult present until the fire is fully extinguished.
- Keep a water source nearby. A garden hose or bucket of water should always be within reach.
- Check conditions before you burn. High winds or dry spells can change the risk picture quickly. If in doubt, skip the fire.
- Follow local bylaws. Ottawa has rules around the size of fires, what materials can be burned, and how close a fire pit can be to structures or property lines.
- Be a good neighbour. Smoke can travel, so be mindful of neighbours who may have respiratory sensitivities.
The Ottawa Fire Services website is the best place to check for any future burn advisories or bans, especially during dry stretches in summer and fall.
Keep an Eye on Conditions
While the immediate threat has eased, spring weather in Ottawa can be unpredictable. A few warm, dry, and windy days could tip conditions back toward elevated fire risk. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and avoid burning during dry spells even when no formal ban is in place.
If you spot a brush fire or unattended outdoor fire that appears out of control, call 911 immediately.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
