08/31/2011

CITY OF WILKES-BARRE TO BEGIN ENFORCEMENT OF OPEN BURNING ORDINANCE

WILKES-BARRE - The City of Wilkes-Barre will begin enforcement of its "open burning" ordinance which was passed by City Council in early August effective immediately. This ordinance regulates the practice of open burning within legal fire pits which can be purchased at many area stores. The ordinance was crafted in consultation between the Wilkes-Barre Fire Department, City Attorney's Office, administration, Wilkes-Barre City Health Department and Wilkes-Barre City Council in response to numerous complaints from residents concerned about the misuse of the fire pits in residential neighborhoods including the burning of newspapers, garbage, and refuse. The ordinance defines open burning as the burning of any materials wherein smoke, ash, or embers are emitted into the air without passing through a stack or chimney.

 

Under the ordinance, it shall be unlawful to burn any material except clean untreated wood, charcoal, or other outdoor cooking fuels customarily used in an outdoor grill or traditional food cooking devices. A fire pit must be attended at all times and remain 15 feet away from other combustible materials or property lines. Fire pits are not permitted on a lot containing more than two dwelling units or at a fraternity, sorority, or similar housing. No open burning will be permitted between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. Resident complaints of open burning should be directed to Luzerne County 911. Any person found guilty of violating a provision of this ordinance shall be guilty of a summary offense and upon conviction face a penalty not to exceed a $250 fine.  


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