Several municipalities are imposing fire bans due to ongoing COVID-19 protocols.
The Municipality of Huron Shores has imposed a ban for all open-air burning permits, but Deputy Clerk Natashia Roberts says under their bylaw, campfires are still allowed.
She adds, however, campfires must meet restrictions in size and location.
Roberts adds fire ban bylaws can vary from municipality to municipality, so the public is asked to check with their local municipal websites.
City of Elliot Lake CAO Daniel Gagnon says all open burning is banned in the city because of the risk to firefighters.
He says every year, issuing fire permits means firefighters have to deal with complaints of smoke or noise, and that puts them and bylaw officers at risk more so now during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
He points out burning during a fire ban can result in a ticket with a $500 fine.