Backyard fires in Hamilton
Whether a backyard fire or fire pit is allowed in Hamilton, Ontario, the permit rule, coverage level, and how to check today's fire ban.
Open-air burning in Hamilton requires a permit, and a recreational campfire is allowed with one. A recreational fire must keep 3 m clearance to anything combustible and burn only clean, dry wood and brush. Permits are mainly for the rural parts of the city.
Gas versus wood
Gas and propane fire pits are allowed and do not need an open-air burn permit.
Today's fire ban
Hamilton can declare a burn ban; a permit does not override an active ban.
For the provincial layer, check Ontario's fire restrictions and the Forest Fire Information Map, which show Restricted Fire Zones across the fire region.
Hamilton backyard fire questions
Can I have a backyard fire in Hamilton?
Open-air burning in Hamilton requires a permit, and a recreational campfire is allowed with one. A recreational fire must keep 3 m clearance to anything combustible and burn only clean, dry wood and brush. Permits are mainly for the rural parts of the city. Source: City of Hamilton, last checked 2026-06-24.
Are gas or propane fire pits allowed in Hamilton?
Gas and propane fire pits are allowed and do not need an open-air burn permit.
How do I know if there is a fire ban in Hamilton today?
Hamilton can declare a burn ban; a permit does not override an active ban. For the provincial picture, check Ontario's fire restrictions page and the Forest Fire Information Map, which show Restricted Fire Zones in the fire region.
Source
From City of Hamilton, last checked 2026-06-24. Do not confuse the City of Hamilton with the separate Township of Hamilton near Cobourg, which has its own burning rules and dates.
This is a plain-language summary, not the bylaw, and not legal advice. Open-air burning rules and bans change quickly, especially in dry weather. Always check your municipality's page and today's ban status before you light anything.
Other municipalities: Kitchener, London, Mississauga, Ottawa. Or see every municipality.