Don't Forget Clawson's Policy on Outdoor Burning

'Tis the season for bonfires, barbecues, and fire bowls in Michigan.

However, as summer kicks into gear next week, the City of Clawson is publicizing rules designated to promote fire safety.

Clawson's ordinance section 62-39 prohibits any garbage, food containers, rubbish, leaves, waste or other material from being burned outdoors, with a number of exceptions.

The open burning of fires is allowed under the following circumstances, outlined in section 46-11:

• The fire is contained within an outdoor burning device, such as a chiminea, commercial fire pit, fire bowl or similarly-manufactured device
• The fire is within a pit located in the ground and surrounded by brick tile or other materials at least eight inches in height with a diameter no more than 48 inches
• The combustible material is untreated wood or charcoal
• The location of the fire is no less than 10 feet from any structure and no less than 18 feet from any boundary or property line
• The fire is attended at all times by an adult
• There is a fire suppression device nearby and available for immediate use All fires must be extinguished by midnight and are not allowed to smolder
• A permit must be obtained from the City Clerk
• The required permit will be valid for five years from the issued date and must be renewed upon expiration. The current fee is $10 for a five year permit from the Clerk.

• The use of an outdoor grill or barbecue is permitted,provided when in use, a fire suppression device is nearby.
• Any burning ordinance violation can result in: a 30-day suspension of the permit for a first violation; a civil infraction for a second violation and the imposition of the cost of prosecution on a fire conducted without any permit. Any fire extinguished by the fire department could result in the assessment of costs against the owner or occupant of the property of which the fire was located.