Can I have a backyard fire? Do I need a burn permit?
In the City of Ottawa, Ontario, open burning & fires rules are set by Open Air Fire (By-law No. 2004-163), verified 2026-10-25. A permit is required. Permit issuer: Fire Chief. Allowed conditions: With permit, not in shaded areas; in hatched areas only campfires, outdoor fireplaces, or brush fires between December 1st and March 31st; no fire ban.
| permit required | yes | without first having obtained the necessary permit |
| permit issuer | Fire Chief | permit from the Fire Chief |
| allowed conditions | With permit, not in shaded areas; in hatched areas only campfires, outdoor fireplaces, or brush fires between December 1st and March 31st; no fire ban. | s. 3(1), 3(2), 3(3), 3(6) |
Regulates open air fires, permits, prohibited burn zones, fire bans, fuel restrictions, and general fire requirements.
Schedules A–P to the Open Air Fire By-law: permit forms, fire-pit and burn-site requirements, and the maps of areas where open air fires are allowed.