Title
Fire Permit Bylaw 2016-09
Proposed Motion
1) That Bylaw 2016-09 receive first reading.
2) That a public hearing be scheduled on May 10, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers to hear public comment on Bylaw 2016-09.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the motion as presented.
Purpose
Council has requested administration to bring forward a redeveloped Fire Permit Bylaw. This bylaw is to authorize the regulation of fires within Parkland County.
Summary
At the November 24, 2015 Council meeting, a motion was passed directing Administration to to bring forward a bylaw authorizing the prevention and control of fires, and a second bylaw to control the use of fireworks in Parkland County. Administration has completed drafting the two bylaws and is requesting that Council give first reading to Fire Permit Bylaw 2016-09.
The draft bylaw as presented will:
• Provide clear direction to residents, business owners and County staff on what type of burning is allowed based on (1) various parcel types in line with the County’s Land Use Bylaw, and (2) parcel size.
• Require that all fires in Parkland County have a permit. A permit is a means to provide education for safe and responsible burning as well ensuring people are accountable for negligence and disregard for safety. In addition it will provide enhanced ability to notify permit holders in the event of a fire restriction or ban.
• Allow for longer duration fire pit permits which will reduce the number of permits a resident is required to currently obtain.
• Establish a defined size for a fire pit,
• Allow for oversized fire pits at youth camps or other educational facilities
• Reduce the impact of smoke irritants on adjacent properties due to the regulation of fire pit size and permit conditions such as wind conditions and someone being present attending to an active fire
• Provide clear definition on what is considered burnable debris and what is considered prohibited debris.
• Allow the County to issue permits at anytime to mitigate a hazard, risk and/or vulnerability to public safety, agricultural activities, and/or vegetation.
Once Council has given Bylaw 2016-09 first reading, Administration will be moving forward with obtaining public feedback. Administration has put together a public engagement strategy which will assist in bringing forward any changes required prior to Council giving second and third reading of the bylaw.
Financial Impact:
Cost: N/A
Source of Funding: N/A