Backyard fire pit ban rejected

The city will not ban backyard fire pits despite complaints from people with serious health issues.

William Quinn, a retired city firefighter who suffers from lung disease, asked councillors at a public hearing Thursday to limit fire pits to city parks only.

However council rejected an outright ban.

Instead Coun.Scott McKeen asked city staff to to look at the current bylaw for ways to tweak it so people with health problems can do something about neighbours who consistently use a backyard fire pit.

Coun.Mike Nickelsuggested that repeat offenders be issued escalating fines.
While Quinn said he was disappointed, he was happy his concerns are being heard.

A report on how the bylaw can be amended will return to councillors in the new year.