Outdoor fire pits are a popular backyard feature in Ottawa, especially during cooler evenings in spring, summer, and fall. While enjoying a fire outdoors is allowed in many situations, it is strictly regulated by the City of Ottawa to reduce fire risk, protect neighbouring properties, and ensure public safety.
If you are wondering whether you can legally have a fire pit in your backyard, whether a fire permit is required, or how Ottawa fire bans affect outdoor fires, this guide explains everything in detail.
Can You Have a Fire in Your Backyard in Ottawa?
Yes, you can have a fire in your backyard in Ottawa, but only if it complies with the City’s Open Air Fire Bylaw and fire safety rules.
The most important factor is how the fire is fueled.
Fire pits that use propane, natural gas, or ethanol are generally allowed and do not require a fire permit. These types of fire features are considered contained appliances and pose a lower fire risk when installed and used correctly.
Wood-burning fires, bonfires, and brush fires are treated differently. These are classified as open-air fires and are subject to permit requirements, seasonal restrictions, and fire bans.
Understanding this distinction is essential, as most fire pit violations occur when homeowners assume all backyard fires are regulated the same way.
Understanding Ottawa’s Outdoor Fire Pit Bylaw
Ottawa regulates outdoor fires through its Open Air Fire Bylaw, enforced by Ottawa Fire Services. The bylaw applies to residential, commercial, and rural properties and governs how, when, and where fires can occur.
The purpose of the bylaw is not to eliminate outdoor fires, but to ensure they are conducted safely and responsibly. It addresses concerns such as uncontrolled flames, flying embers, smoke complaints, and the strain fires can place on emergency services.
The bylaw also allows the City to impose temporary fire bans during periods of increased risk, even if permits have already been issued.
Fire Pit, Bonfire, or Outdoor Fireplace: What’s the Difference?
Ottawa’s rules vary depending on the type of fire feature you are using.
A fire pit is typically a contained unit designed for recreational use. Gas and propane fire pits fall into this category and are usually allowed without a permit.
A bonfire involves a larger, open flame created by stacking wood or debris. Bonfires are considered high-risk open-air fires and almost always require a permit. They are often restricted in urban areas and during fire season.
An outdoor fireplace includes enclosed masonry fireplaces, chimineas, and manufactured units designed to contain sparks and embers. Permit requirements depend on the fuel source and construction.
Understanding these differences helps homeowners avoid unintentional bylaw violations.
Do You Need a Fire Permit in Ottawa?
You generally need an Open Air Fire Permit if you plan to burn wood, brush, leaves, or other combustible materials outdoors.
Ottawa typically requires permits during the regulated fire season, which runs from April 1 to October 31, although permits may still be required outside this period depending on conditions.
Fire pits that run on propane, natural gas, or ethanol do not require a permit, which is why they are often recommended for residential backyards.
Permits must be obtained before lighting any fire, and there is often a short waiting period before the permit becomes active in the City’s system.
Types of Open Air Fire Permits in Ottawa
Ottawa issues different types of fire permits depending on the nature of the fire and the property location.
Some permits allow limited recreational fires, while others apply to agricultural or land-clearing activities. Each permit type has strict rules regarding fire size, burn times, supervision, and acceptable materials.
Permits do not override fire bans, and all fires must comply with safety requirements even when a permit is valid.
Ottawa Fire Ban Updates and Restrictions
A fire ban temporarily prohibits some or all outdoor fires due to dangerous weather conditions, such as prolonged dry spells, high winds, or extreme heat.
Fire bans can be issued city-wide or for specific areas and may suspend all open-air fires, including those with valid permits.
Before lighting any outdoor fire, homeowners should always check the current Ottawa fire ban status through official City of Ottawa or Ottawa Fire Services updates.
Violating a fire ban can result in immediate enforcement action, even if a permit was previously issued.
Where You Can Place a Fire Pit in Ottawa
Fire pit placement plays a major role in compliance and safety.
Ottawa fire safety guidelines generally require outdoor fire pits to be placed at least three metres away from buildings, fences, sheds, and other combustible structures. There must also be adequate vertical clearance to prevent sparks from contacting overhanging branches or structures.
Wind direction, nearby vegetation, and ground surface materials should all be considered. Fire pits should never be placed on wooden decks unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.
Seasonal Rules and Backyard Fire Use
Outdoor fire rules in Ottawa are affected by the time of year.
Spring and summer typically bring stricter enforcement due to dry conditions and increased fire risk. Fall may allow more flexibility, but fire bans can still be imposed unexpectedly.
Weather conditions such as wind speed, humidity, and recent rainfall all influence whether outdoor fires are allowed on any given day.
Checking conditions before lighting a fire is just as important as having the correct permit.
Safety Responsibilities for Homeowners
Homeowners are responsible for ensuring fires are constantly supervised and properly extinguished. Fires must never be left unattended, even for a short period.
A water source, such as a hose or bucket, should always be nearby. Fires must be fully extinguished before leaving the area, with ashes cooled and checked for lingering embers.
Children and pets should be kept at a safe distance at all times.
Fire Pits and Home Insurance
Installing a permanent outdoor fire feature may affect your home insurance coverage.
Insurance providers often require notification of permanent fire installations, especially masonry fireplaces or fixed fire pits. Failure to disclose these features may affect coverage in the event of a fire-related claim.
Checking with your insurer before installation helps avoid complications later.
Consequences of Violating Ottawa Fire Pit Rules
Non-compliance with Ottawa’s fire bylaws can lead to fines, permit revocation, or orders to extinguish and remove non-compliant fire features.
If emergency services are required to respond to an unauthorized or unsafe fire, property owners may be responsible for fire suppression costs, including equipment and personnel time.
Repeated violations can result in increased enforcement action.
Urban vs Rural Fire Rules in Ottawa
Fire regulations can vary depending on whether your property is located in an urban, suburban, or rural area of Ottawa.
Rural properties may be eligible for different permit types, but they are still subject to fire bans, safety rules, and enforcement.
Urban properties typically face stricter placement and size restrictions due to proximity to neighbouring homes.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Many violations occur because homeowners assume:
- All fire pits are treated the same
- A permit overrides a fire ban
- Small fires do not need supervision
- Gas fire pits require permits
- Fire rules only apply during the summer
Avoiding these assumptions significantly reduces the risk of fines and safety issues.
Final Thoughts on Outdoor Fire Pits in Ottawa
Outdoor fire pits are allowed in Ottawa, but only when used responsibly and in accordance with City bylaws.
Gas and propane fire pits remain the simplest and safest option for most homeowners. Wood-burning fires require careful planning, permits, and constant attention to fire bans and weather conditions.
Before starting any fire, always confirm permit requirements, check fire ban updates, and ensure your setup meets safety guidelines. Doing so allows you to enjoy your outdoor space while protecting your home, neighbours, and community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Ottawa?
Yes, especially if it is propane, natural gas, or ethanol-fueled. Wood-burning fires may require a permit.
Do I need a fire permit in Ottawa?
Permits are required for most open-air wood fires, but not for gas or propane fire pits.
Are bonfires allowed in Ottawa?
Bonfires are considered open-air fires and usually require permits. They may be restricted during fire bans.
How do I check Ottawa fire ban updates?
Fire ban information is published by Ottawa Fire Services and should always be checked before lighting a fire.
Can I be fined for breaking fire pit rules?
Yes. Violations can result in fines, permit cancellation, and responsibility for fire department response costs.