Open-Air Burning and Permits

Fire permits

Township of Severn’s Open-Air Burning By-law regulates the issuing of fire permits, the size of fires and materials you can burn within an open-air fire.

We issue two types of fire permits:

• an annual fire permit for all fires 61 cm in diameter or less
• a one-time use agricultural fire permit for larger burns (our staff will need to visit the site to approve the permit)

With either type of permit, you can only burn tree branches or clean dry wood. You are not allowed to burn leaves or garden waste in an open-air fire. Instead, you can dispose of yard waste through the County of Simcoe's yard waste and leaf pick up program.

Fees

Fire permit fees vary depending on the size and type of fire:

• $25.65 for an annual fire permit (valid until December 31 of the year the permit is issued)
• $76.95 for an agricultural fire permit (must purchase a new permit for each agricultural burn)

Purchase your residential fire permit online

Please complete this application if you'd like to undertake open-air burning that is 61 cm x 61 cm (24” x 24”) or less. The approved burn permit will be valid until December 31 of the year the permit is issued.

Before you purchase your permit online

Before you make a payment, please make sure that your property is located in the Township of Severn. You can double-check by entering your address into our Interactive Zoning Map.

You can pay for your annual fire permit online with Mastercard, Visa, or Visa debit only (we do not accept credit cards other than Mastercard or Visa). After purchasing your fire permit online, your permit will be sent directly to you by email. The permit must be displayed when burning and should be available upon request from members of Severn Fire and Emergency Services or Township staff. 

Fire permits can also be purchased at our Administration Office (1024 Hurlwood Lane) during regular business hours. 

Apply for an agricultural fire permit online

Agricultural fire permits are required for larger burns. Each permit is valid for 30 days and requires a new approval after it expires.

Severn Fire and Emergency Services will contact you about your application and, if approved, confirm the authorized burn date.