Fire Department | Town of Saugeen Shores

Burn Permits

Becoming a Volunteer Fire Fighter

Fire Prevention and Education

The Town of Saugeen Shores is served by a dedicated Fire Department made up of approximately 50 trained volunteer firefighters, supported by a full-time Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Fire Prevention Officer and Administrative Assistant.

Operating from two fire stations, our department provides timely emergency response across both urban and rural areas. We respond to approximately 100 to 150 calls per year, ensuring safety and protection throughout the community.

Interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter?

Our volunteer team plays a critical role in keeping residents safe through emergency response, fire prevention, and public education.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to make a difference, build new skills, and support your community, this may be it. Learn more about the role and the process to become a volunteer firefighter.

Learn more

Recreational Fire

A recreational fire or campfire does not require a permit. The fire must be contained within a non-combustible burning device. The burn area should be no larger than 1 cubic metre (3’x3'x3').

Rules

Only burn clean, dry wood, commercial charcoal, or briquettes

A fire extinguisher, water source, or other means of extinguishing the fire must always be available

Wood must be smaller than the burning device (e.g. firepit or chiminea)

Maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3 metres) around the burning device from all structures, objects, and property lines

Fires must not negatively impact neighbouring properties (e.g. excessive smoke or odour)

Smoke must not cross roadways or obstruct driver visibility

Fires must be always supervised by a responsible adult

Fires must be completely extinguished before leaving the area

Non-recreation Fire

Fires larger than the recreational fire limit (1 cubic metre) require a permit. Burn permits are issued by the Saugeen Shores Fire Department (SSFD).

The SSFD requires 48 hours notice prior to the requested burn day. A site inspection may be required, at the discretion of the Fire Chief.

Rules

Burning is only permitted between sunrise and sunset

Only clean, dry materials may be burned, including wood, brush and natural vegetation

Do not burn household garbage, petroleum products, plastics, rubber, or any materials that produce excessive smoke

Recreational fires must be kept at a safe distance

All other fires must be set at least 50 feet (15 metres) from buildings, trees, fences, highways, overhead wires and combustible materials

The burn area must not exceed the size specified on your approved permit

Clear the area of all vegetation to prevent fire from spreading

Fires must not negatively affect neighbouring properties through smoke, odour, or ash

Smoke must not drift across roads or reduce visibility for drivers

A fire extinguisher or approved extinguishing method must be readily available

Fires must be actively always supervised by a responsible adult

Fires must be fully extinguished before leaving the site

The area must continue to be monitored for at least 24 hours after extinguishment

Southampton Fire Station

50 Victoria Street South, Southampton
Phone: 519-797-3906
Fax: 519-797-2341

Port Elgin Fire Station

612 Emma Street, Port Elgin
Phone: 519-389-6120
Fax: 519-389-4493