Arnold approves ordinance allowing backyard fires -- with a permit, under certain rules
Arnold Council has approved an ordinance allowing and regulating burning in the city.
Under the ordinance, fires at residences must be in a container no more than 3 feet in diameter and at least 2 feet tall. Containers for fires must be at least 15 feet from structures.
Open fires must be 50 feet from property lines and structures.
Backyard fires previously were not allowed in Arnold, the city’s solicitor said.
Recreational fires, such as Scout campfires and bonfires, are permitted but would have to be extinguished if surrounding residents were to complain.
Council members proposed the ordinance in December. Former Mayor Karen Peconi was opposed to the measure, saying she was concerned because of the smoke and how close the city’s houses are.
Open fires require a permit from the ordinance officer. Permits will be valid for one week, with only one issued per address per month.
Only things like tree branches and similar material excluding leaves, may be burned.
Open fires also may be set for recreational purposes such as cooking and camping.
Fires are not allowed for the destruction of refuse or in a salvage operation.
Businesses and commercial establishments are prohibited from burning.
Brian C. Rittmeyer, a Pittsburgh native and graduate of Penn State University's Schreyer Honors College, has been with the Trib since December 2000. He can be reached at brittmeyer@triblive.com.
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