Total Burn Ban lifted in Selwyn Township; brush burning ban still in effect
The Selwyn Fire Department has lifted the Total Burn Ban that was implemented on August 11, 2025, due to high fire risk conditions, however a ban on brush burning remains in effect.
Recent improvements in weather and fire risk levels allow for the safe resumption of some burning activities. Restrictions remain in place.
Permitted:
Campfires
Outdoor fireplaces
Fire pits
Chimineas
Prohibited:
Yard waste and brush burning
Agricultural burns
Personal fireworks remain strongly discouraged. Licensed and insured commercial fireworks displays with appropriate mitigation measures in place are permitted.
“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during the burn ban. Your efforts helped prevent potential fires during a very dry period. Please continue to follow the restrictions and practice safe burning habits.”
Burning conditions can change at any time. Residents must verify the current conditions prior to burning by calling the Selwyn Fire Department at 705-292-7282 or checking the Selwyn Township website or social media.
“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during the burn ban,” said Gord Jopling, Fire Chief. “Your efforts helped prevent potential fires during a very dry period. Please continue to follow the restrictions and practice safe burning habits.”
Important Fire Safety Reminders:
Open air burning (such as campfires and outdoor fireplaces) is not permitted in built-up areas, including Lakefield, Bridgenorth, Ennismore, Young’s Point, and Woodland Acres.
Burn barrels are not permitted in the Township.
Burning of noxious materials, leaves, grass clippings, or compost is prohibited.
Burn permits are required for any fire that is not a campfire or outdoor fireplace.
Permits are issued only by the Selwyn Fire Department at Hall 1, 833 Ward Street, Bridgenorth. For information, call 705-292-7282.
You do not need a burn permit for:
Campfires in a fire pit or fire container
Certified propane and natural gas appliances, fire pits, fire tables, or barbecues that are TSSA approved
Maintain a 1:10 ratio for fire safe distance – for example, a fire that is 2 feet in diameter must have 20 feet of clearance in all directions.
All fires must comply with the Township’s Open Air Burning By-law, available on the Township website www.selwyntownship.ca.
As of Tuesday, August 26, 2025, a full lawn watering ban for Lakefield remains in effect.