May 27, 2021
HORNELL, NY – From The Hornell Fire Dept:
RECREATIONAL FIRES WITHIN CITY LIMITS
With the arrival of warmer weather, residents are spending more time in their backyards around a campfire or barbeque. It is important to remember that although the city of Hornell does allow recreational fires, there are regulations to ensure public safety and, further, so that smoke does not become offensive to others in your neighborhood. We live in this community together and need to respect all of our neighbors. Please understand that there are individuals that have respiratory issues that can inhibit their enjoyment of outdoor activities during smoky conditions.
Guidelines regarding recreational fires within city limits are as follows:
▪ The fire must be contained in a chiminea-type fireplace or fire pit with a spark arresting cover.
▪ No fire shall be more than 2 feet in height.
▪ The fire must be a minimum of 15 feet away from any combustible fence or structure.
▪ Fires must consist of either charcoal or untreated, seasoned, dry wood (wet, fresh cut, painted, or stained wood create excessive/harsh smoke conditions and should not be used).
▪ There is absolutely no burning of garbage, paper, trash, yard waste, or construction debris.
▪ There must be a means of extinguishment readily available such as a garden hose, 4A rated fire extinguisher, pile of dirt or sand with a shovel.
▪ The fire must be constantly tended to by a competent adult until it is extinguished.
▪ If the fire becomes offensive or objectionable to a neighbor due to smoke, odor, health concerns, or a hazardous condition, we will ask you to extinguish the fire.
The Fire Department is often called to check outdoor fires due to the presence of a dangerous condition or nuisance. Again, even if all the above safety conditions are met, if the smoke from your fire is bothering another resident we will ask that the fire be extinguished.
Thank you,
Frank Brzozowski
Fire Chief, City of Hornell
