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Riverview fire chief proposes strict open‑burning rules, 3‑ft limit on private fires
Summary
The fire chief asked council to adopt an open‑burning ordinance that would require permits for outdoor fires, allow only clean wood, limit flames and pit size (roughly 3‑ft), and set a 15‑ft clearance from structures; staff said large community bonfires can be permitted in cooperation with the state.
Riverview’s fire chief presented a proposed open‑burning ordinance that would require permits for outdoor campfires and bonfires, permit only clean wood, prohibit construction materials and pallets, and set size and location limits intended to reduce noxious smoke and fire risk.
The draft calls for a 15‑foot clearance from adjacent structures and would limit private fire pits to roughly a 3‑foot diameter and about 3‑foot flame height; the chief said any fire producing large embers or flames above the limit would be ordered extinguished.
Council members asked whether community bonfires—such as high‑school or annual events that historically used pallets—could still take place. The chief answered that large events should obtain a special permit and may require coordination with the state; for example, the high school and a longstanding community event have previously worked with the department and had on‑site equipment and staffing during their bonfires.
The ordinance also would prohibit burning of trash, construction material and pallets that can produce heavy smoke or noxious fumes and would require that fires be attended and fully extinguished.
Council did not take a final vote on the ordinance at the meeting; staff said the draft had been edited and is ready to go on the agenda.
