Burning Permits and Grass Burning Myths

The province has two timely fire-related reminders for Nova Scotians: burning brush within 1,000 feet (300 metres) of woods requires a provincial burning permit, and burning grass should be avoided.

"Warm weather this winter has increased the risk of wild fires so we encourage people planning to burn brush to get a permit," said Charlie Parker, Minister of Natural Resources. "Nova Scotians should also heed the advice of our firefighters that grass burning damages soil, destroys habitat and causes serious safety risks."

A provincial permit for burning brush is required as of April 1 in Yarmouth, Digby, Annapolis, Shelburne, Kings, Queens, and Lunenburg counties, and as of April 15 for the rest of the province.

Permits are available until Oct. 15 at Department of Natural Resources offices, listed at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/staffdir/offices.asp .

Domestic burning permits for yard clean up are valid for two weeks and cost $5.71. Industrial burning permits for land clearing, agricultural clearing, and blueberry fields are valid for as long as the job takes and are $57.16 .

Some towns and municipalities restrict burning or require their own permit in addition to the provincial permit so it is important to check before burning.

Grass burning should be avoided at all times. It carries great risks to people and property and causes significant firefighting costs to taxpayers every year. Burning grass destroys the habitat of many species, such as small birds that nest in tall grass and old vegetation. Grass fires that get out of control threaten wildlife, firefighters, and neighbourhoods.

The myth that burned grass grows back greener is not supported by science. A list of grass burning myths and facts is available at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/forestprotection/wildfire/firecentre/grass-burning.asp .