Open-air fire bylaw to be debated Monday
The contentious debate on backyard firepit restrictions in Saskatoon that has lasted more than a decade is set for a conclusion on Monday.
City council is slated to vote on a bylaw change that would prohibit backyard open-air fires outside the hours of 5 to 11 p.m.
Council voted 6-5 in December to move ahead with the new rules against the protests of many who feel they represent an unnecessary intrusion on their right to enjoy their property.
Attendance by councillors could be crucial to the final decision on Monday, since a tied vote would represent a defeat. Proposed restrictions on panhandling last year failed on a tied vote with only nine councillors present, despite being narrowly approved in principle by council.
The vote in December on firepits sparked severe reaction online.
Coun. Zach Jeffries started an online petition to gauge support for his opposition to the curfew, but then urged people to bring a more civil tone to the debate.
Another petition against the decision was started, and a petition started in May to “save” Saskatoon firepits drew more signatures.
The new rules would not apply to barbecues.
The Saskatoon fire department, which is tasked with enforcing existing firepit rules, has acknowledged a better effort is needed. Residents who lobbied for restrictions have noted the adverse health effects linked to smoke from burning wood.