Fire-related Permits

Exercise caution when conducting permitted open-air burning and when using outdoor firepits and barbecues. Learn more about fire prevention

Fire burn permits

 

Full rules, regulations and safety precautions to take for open-air burning in Vaughan are available in the Fire Burn Permit By-law 157-2023 (PDF). Before applying for a fire burn permit, ensure burning a fire in your area is allowed and a fire burn ban is not in effect.

Answer

To obtain a residential fire burn permit, send a completed Residential Fire Burn Permit Application (PDF) to firerescue@vaughan.ca. Once the application is received, you will be contacted about payment details.


To obtain a commercial fire burn permit, send a completed Commercial Fire Burn Permit Application (PDF) to firerescue@vaughan.ca. Once the application is received, you will be contacted about payment details. 

Answer

A burn permit is not required for chimineas, chimneys or wood burning appliances, provided they are used by the following safety tips:

 

1.    Maintain a minimum three-metre (about 10 feet) clearance between the fireplace and combustible objects and surfaces to prevent ignition from radiant heat.
2.    Use appropriate insulating material between the unit and the wooden deck if the unit is being used on a wooden patio.
3.    Burn clean, dry firewood only.
4.    Limit the amount of burnt firewood to ensure the flames are confined to the unit and do not extend into the chimney.
5.    Keep the unit under constant supervision when in use.
6.    Keep a method of fire extinguishing nearby (e.g. fire extinguisher, pail of water, garden hose)
7.    Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
8.    Check the unit regularly for cracks or other physical deterioration.
9.    Do not use the outdoor fireplace during high winds.
10.    Do not allow the smoke from the fireplace to affect the enjoyment of the natural environment by neighbours.
 

It is the occupant’s responsibility to ensure the fireplace is being used appropriately. If a complaint is received and it is determined that any of the 10 tips have not been followed, Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) will attend the location, advise the owner/occupant there was an anonymous complaint and request that the fire be put out. Depending on prior occurrences, and/or the severity of the hazard created, VFRS may issue a verbal warning or proceed with other enforcement action. To file a complaint, call 905-832-8506, Communications Division non-emergency line, and press “0.”

Firework permits

 

This permit application is for using or displaying fireworks for personal or business use only. 


To operate fireworks on any day other than Victoria Day or Canada Day, you will need to submit a Fireworks Display Permit Application to obtain a permit.

Answer

1.    Fill out the Fireworks Display Permit Application (PDF) form.
2.    Create a site drawing of where the fireworks will take place and indicate the firing zone and location of spectators.
3.    Submit the application form and site drawing to fireprevention@vaughan.ca.

Once received, a firework permit may take up to 10 business days to process. Full rules and regulations for setting off fireworks in Vaughan are available in the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics By-law 089-2022 (PDF). To learn more, read the Fireworks Safety brochure (PDF). 

Businesses interested in selling fireworks must apply for a licence and take the necessary courses.

Media
Image
burn ban lifted

Contact Information

Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service

Joint Operations Centre
2800 Rutherford Rd.
Vaughan, ON L4K 2N9
Canada

Mailing Address

Vaughan City Hall
2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.
Vaughan, ON L6A 1T1
Canada