Supervisors extend burn ban and debate excessive smoke regulations in local township
April 22, 2024 | Huntington Township, Adams County, Pennsylvania
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During the recent Huntington Township Planning Commission meeting on April 22, 2024, a significant discussion centered around a proposed burn ban ordinance, which aims to regulate outdoor burning, particularly during drought conditions. The ordinance was initially tabled due to public concerns regarding vague language about "excessive odor or smoke," which many residents argued is difficult to define and enforce.
The impetus for the ordinance stems from last year's drought, which highlighted the township's lack of authority to restrict burning when conditions became hazardous. The commission acknowledged that while the intention is to protect the community, the language surrounding the ban has raised questions and opposition among residents.
Key concerns included the practicality of enforcing a ban that prohibits any burning that creates "excessive odor or smoke." Residents pointed out that all fires produce some level of smoke and odor, making it challenging to determine what constitutes "excessive." This ambiguity could lead to disputes among neighbors and potential fines for residents who may not be aware of the ordinance's implications.
Several community members expressed their support for a burn ban during droughts but urged the commission to simplify the language and remove the contentious definitions. They emphasized the need for a clear and fair approach that applies equally to all residents, regardless of whether they are engaged in agricultural activities or residential burning.
The commission is now tasked with revising the ordinance to address these concerns, aiming to strike a balance between public safety and the rights of residents to manage their properties. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential revisions to ensure that the ordinance serves its intended purpose without imposing undue restrictions on the community.
As the township moves forward, residents are encouraged to stay engaged in the process, as the outcome of this ordinance could significantly impact local practices regarding outdoor burning and fire safety.
The impetus for the ordinance stems from last year's drought, which highlighted the township's lack of authority to restrict burning when conditions became hazardous. The commission acknowledged that while the intention is to protect the community, the language surrounding the ban has raised questions and opposition among residents.
Key concerns included the practicality of enforcing a ban that prohibits any burning that creates "excessive odor or smoke." Residents pointed out that all fires produce some level of smoke and odor, making it challenging to determine what constitutes "excessive." This ambiguity could lead to disputes among neighbors and potential fines for residents who may not be aware of the ordinance's implications.
Several community members expressed their support for a burn ban during droughts but urged the commission to simplify the language and remove the contentious definitions. They emphasized the need for a clear and fair approach that applies equally to all residents, regardless of whether they are engaged in agricultural activities or residential burning.
The commission is now tasked with revising the ordinance to address these concerns, aiming to strike a balance between public safety and the rights of residents to manage their properties. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential revisions to ensure that the ordinance serves its intended purpose without imposing undue restrictions on the community.
As the township moves forward, residents are encouraged to stay engaged in the process, as the outcome of this ordinance could significantly impact local practices regarding outdoor burning and fire safety.
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