Burk’s Falls and District Fire Department
The Burk’s Falls and District Fire Department is committed to protecting the lives, property, and environment of our residents and visitors. We deliver this through fire prevention, public education, community involvement, and effective emergency response to fires, medical incidents, and other urgent situations.
In support of community safety, the Village enforces Carbon Monoxide Detectors By-Law No. 10-2011, which requires functioning carbon monoxide alarms in all applicable dwellings. These alarms provide critical early warning and play a vital role in preventing injuries and fatalities caused by carbon monoxide exposure.
We are also proud members of the Almaguin Mutual and Automatic Aid Program, working alongside neighbouring municipalities to ensure coordinated, reliable, and community-focused emergency services throughout the region.
Open-Air Burning Update – Effective November 1
Beginning November 1, the fire rating is reduced to Low, and daytime burning is now permitted within the Village. All burning must comply with By-law 14-2017, and residents are reminded to follow safe burning practices to help protect our community.
Open-Air Burning Requirements
Always burn responsibly:
No accelerants are permitted.
Water, shovels, and tools for containment must be available at all times.
All fires must be supervised at all times.
Recreational Fires
Maximum size: 2 ft x 2 ft
Must be 6 m from adjacent properties and combustible materials.
Non-Recreational Fires (e.g., brush burning)
Maximum size: 2 m x 2 m
Must be 25 m from adjacent properties and combustible materials.
For more information, or to obtain a copy of the Open-Air Burning and Fee By-laws, please contact the Municipal Offices of Armour, Burk’s Falls, or Ryerson.
Please note that contraventions of the Open-Air Burning By-law may result in a minimum fine of $300.00, and additional charges may apply at the MTO rate for each Fire Emergency Response vehicle dispatched.
If you have questions about fire safety, open-air burning, or the current fire rating, please contact the Fire Prevention Officer at 705-788-4676.
LOW - WINTER DAYTIME BURNING ALLOWED
Open Air Burning and incinerators, including burn barrels with 3/8" mesh as a lid allowed. Only environmentally friendly products may be burned.
LOW - NO DAYTIME BURNING ALLOWED
Open Air Burning and Incinerators, including burn barrels with 3/8” mesh as lid allowed starting at 6pm and completely out by 10am.
Only environmentally friendly products may be burned.
Camp Fires are allowed for cooking and warmth at anytime.
MODERATE - NO DAYTIME BURNING ALLOWED
Open Air Burning and Incinerators, including burn barrels with 3/8” mesh as lid allowed starting at 6pm and completely out by 10am.
Only environmentally friendly products may be burned.
Camp Fires are allowed for cooking and warmth at anytime.
HIGH - NO OPEN BURNING including incinerators and camp fires.
NO OPEN BURNING – NO FIREWORKS
Only Enclosed Camp Fires for cooking and warmth.
Enclosed fire, surrounded by brick / stones or in a metal burn container / ring no bigger than 2 feet / 24 inches
EXTREME - COMPLETE BAN
NO BURNING ALLOWED at anytime.
NO FIREWORKS, NO SPARKLERS
Forest Fire Information
Staying informed about forest fire conditions is essential for the safety of our community and surrounding areas. Fire ratings are updated regularly to reflect current weather, moisture levels, and fire risk. Residents are encouraged to check the local Forest Fire Rating Boards before conducting any outdoor burning or planning activities that could pose a fire hazard.
Forest Fire Rating Boards Are Located At:
Armour: North-east corner of Hwy 11 & Doe Lake Road
Burk’s Falls: Ontario Street & Ryerson Crescent (Hwy 520)
Ryerson: Ryerson Municipal Office/Garage (Hwy 520 & Midlothian Road)
By staying aware of the current fire rating and following all burning regulations, we can work together to help prevent forest fires and protect our community.
Volunteer Firefighter Application
Individuals interested in volunteering with the Burk’s Falls and District Fire Department are invited to complete a volunteer application and submit it to either the Municipal Office (172 Ontario Street) or the Fire Department Office (162 Huston Street). Please address your application to Attention: Fire Chief.
Applications are available for pickup at the Municipal Office or can be downloaded below.
