Mapleton lifts ban on large fires

MAPLETON – A ban on large fires here has been lifted.

The ban on fires more than 2m by 2m in size was implemented on Jan. 13, in response to the current stay-at-home order.

The intent was to reduce the likelihood of fire in the township, in order to avoid putting emergency responders at risk.

However, Mapleton Fire Chief Rick Richardson announced on Jan. 21 that the ban has been lifted.

“To ensure the safety of our firefighters during the second lockdown, the Mapleton Fire Department has implemented further measures to ensure firefighters safety, including if they are called to burn notification sites,” Richardson states.

Open-air burn notifications are required for any fire over 2m x 2m.

Richardson notes the fire department reserves the right to charge property owners who do not have a fire permit at the current MTO rate if called out to their burn.

Notifications must be submitted before 4pm the day prior to burning, and an approval email or call must be received before a burn can begin.

“We understand this temporary burn ban was an inconvenience for some and we appreciate your understanding during these unprecedented times,” Richardson states.

For more information visit the township website or call the office at 519-638-3313.