Fire Pits

When Is Having A Fire Permitted?

Fire Pits are permitted in the Town of Olds provided the following conditions are met:

• Always check if a Fire Ban is in effect before starting a backyard fire.
• Burn only clean, dry, untreated wood or charcoal. (No yard waste.)
• A competent person must remain in charge of the fire at all times.
• Flames are not to exceed one meter in height.
• A means of thoroughly extinguishing the fire is available, ie: garden hose.
• The fire does not create a nuisance to any other person.
• The fire does not create a risk of damage to people or property.
• Ensure that the fire is extinguished leaving only cold ashes before supervision of the fire ends.

Fire Pit Requirements

Fire Pits must meet all the following requirements:

• A minimum of three meters clearance shall be maintained from buildings, property lines, trees, overhead power lines, combustible fences or any combustible material.
• Installations must have enclosed sides made from bricks, concrete blocks, or heavy gauge metal, or other suitable non-combustible components.
• Has an open flame area not exceeding one meter at its widest point.
• Does not have walls which exceed .75 meters in height measured from the floor of the fire pit to the top of the wall excluding any chimney.
• Is set into bare ground or other noncombustible surface.
• A spark arrestor mesh screen of 12 mm (1/2 inch) expanded metal (or equivalent) to contain sparks shall be provided over the fire.