Burn Permit Frequently Asked Questions

What Burn Permit options do I have?
  • Campfire 
  • Brush (subject to conditions noted below)

Special permits may also be issued at the discretion of the Fire Chief for special burns.  Any questions or concerns should be directed to Bill Balfour, Fire Chief: 705-932-2765 or bbalfour@cavanmonaghan.net. 

What does the Campfire Burn Permit allow me to do?

A Campfire Burn Permit permits you to burn Authorized Burning Material in an Approved Device contained in such a way to prevent the spread of the fire, and which fire is no larger than 46 cm x 46 cm (18” x 18”), a minimum of 15 m (50’) from any structure, and is supervised by an adult at all times.

Can I burn brush in a campfire?
Yes, small branches or twigs can be burned in a campfire, but the brush must not produce a fire larger than 46 cm x 46 cm (18” x 18”). If you wish to burn larger than these dimensions you must purchase a Brush Burn Permit.
What is Authorized Burning Material?
  • Environmentally friendly material including, but not limited to, natural wood and brush.

Authorized Burning Material does not include, among other things, pressure treated wood, recyclables, plastics and household waste.

What is an Approved Device?
An Approved Device means a chiminea or another unit that is:
  • a ULC/CSA approved device;
  • in conformance with the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000, as amended;
  • for outdoor use;
  • installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; and
  • approved by the Fire Chief.

How much is a Campfire Burn Permit and how long is it valid?

A Campfire Burn Permit is $10.00 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

What does a Brush Burn Permit allow me to do?
A Brush Burn Permit allows you to burn branches or twigs in a pile larger than 46 cm x 46 cm (18” x 18”), but not to exceed 3 m x 3 m x 1 m (10’ x 10’ x 4’). All brush fires must be located a minimum of 100 m (330’) from any structure on your property.

How much is a Brush Burn Permit and how long is it valid?
A Brush Burn Permit is $25.00 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Do I have to call in before or after a fire?

No, just follow all terms and conditions as set out on your permit. Check the Township of Cavan Monaghan website, and social media accounts for any current Burn Bans or Burn Restrictions.  

Under the New Permit system https://cavanmonaghan.burnpermits.com, the Permit holder will be able to receive real-time notifications of burn bans or burn restrictions through one or all of the following methods; text message, email or automated phone calls. Please follow the link above and sign up today.

Can I burn in a barrel?
No, barrel burning is not permitted for any material.

Where can I buy a Burn Permit?
Burn Permits are available online at https://cavanmonaghan.burnpermits.com/ or at the Township office at 988 County Road 10, Millbrook, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or at both libraries. The Millbrook Branch at 1 Dufferin Street Millbrook and at Bruce Johnston library 2199 Davis Road Cavan during business hours.

What is a Special Burn Permit?
Special Burn Permits:
  • are for piles larger than 3 m x 3 m x 1 m (10’ x 10’ x 4’)
  • will be subject to conditions based on specific site conditions
  • will be valid only for a set period of time
  • must burn in only approved location set out by Fire Chief
  • are only issued by the Fire Chief
  • fee is $50.00

What If I Have More Questions?

Any questions or concerns should be directed to Bill Balfour, Fire Chief: 705-932-2765 or bbalfour@cavanmonaghan.net

Be responsible – burn safely!

For information and preventive measures to reduce fires on your property visit the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Fire Smart Manual.