As springtime approaches and the yard clean up begins, many residents are tempted to burn their leaves and other yard waste. Open burning in Saginaw Township is restricted to the following conditions:

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.

 

New Fire Code and Ordinances

The department recently adopted the 2006 edition of the International Fire Code. This adoption includes additions and revisions to the existing ordinances, including changes to open burning and permit fees. Check back soon for updated information and additional links.