Fire Codes: What They Are And Why We Have Them

Saginaw Township, by ordinance, has adopted the 2006 International Fire Code with amendments. These guidelines assist STFD in the protection of property and life in the community by helping reduce the conditions in which many fires start. The fire code, in conjunction with the State of Michigan, provides the fire department authority to conduct fire investigations, fire inspections, site planning for new development, plan review of fire alarm and fire protection systems, and new construction and maintenance of fire alarm and fire protection systems.

To view the adopted amendments and revisions to the 2006 International Fire Code, click on the following link: Fire Code Revisions

Open Burning

One of the most often asked questions and misunderstood ordinances concerns the subject of open burning. Saginaw Charter Township has for many years tightly regulated open burning in our community. Due to the extensive development of our retail, commercial and residential neighborhoods, open burning has been prohibited except under prescribed conditions and pursuant to a permit issued by the Fire Department prior to burning. The purpose of the limitations is designed to promote the general peace, health, safety and welfare of township residents.

A permit is required to conduct open burning, excluding cooking fires contained in a barbecue pit, fireplace, barbecue grill, smoker or other receptacle specifically designed for cooking food over an open fire or for small recreational or camp fires contained within a pit or approved burning container or receptacle. Approved containers and pits must be at least 15 feet from structures and property lines. The pile size for recreational burning is limited to three feet in diameter and two feet in height.

Permits for open burning are obtained from the Fire Department Headquarters office located at 4930 Shattuck Road, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Permits are issued for up to a three day duration and are renewable. Burning of leaves, yard waste, ditch banks, household rubbish, tires, building materials, paper products or any product other than clean wood is prohibited. Open burning for clearing land is also prohibited.

Open burning, bonfires and recreational fires shall be extinguished by 11:00 p.m. A responsible adult, at least 18 years of age, shall be present at all times until extinguished ashes are cold. A garden hose connected to a water supply or other extinguishing equipment shall be readily available for use at all open burning sites.

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