Open-burning ordinance deferred for further consultation with fire chiefs and resident concerns

The ordinance committee discussed a proposed open-burning ordinance intended to regulate non-agricultural burning, require permits for burns on parcels of one acre or more, set seasonal and hourly limits, and make affidavits available online, then voted to defer further action pending consultation with the fire chiefs.

Staff described the draft as similar to the version reviewed previously but with more prescriptive language, changing permissive wording to mandatory standards and requiring a permit. "This regulates that type of burning... you need one acre or more to burn on your property. It can only be done certain times of the year, only certain hours, and you need to get a permit," Tony said. He added that a permit would last for the burning season and could be revoked.

Members asked whether the seasonal restriction would unduly burden residents who conduct routine fall brush cleanups. One member said they were reluctant to impose an overly burdensome process on longtime residents who burn brush responsibly; another noted calls to police and nuisance complaints during drought conditions as a rationale to be proactive. Committee members suggested the chiefs be consulted to refine the season, conditions, and enforcement approach.

S4 moved to defer the ordinance and ask the administrator to consult the chiefs; S3 seconded the motion, which passed by voice vote. The committee tasked staff with returning with adjustments informed by the chiefs' recommendations and clearer guidance on affidavit and permit procedures.