Open air burning season opens
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To ensure the Okanagan-Similkameen’s air quality is as good as it can be, the Regional District implemented an Open Air Burning Bylaw for the fire protection areas of Naramata, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Willowbrook and Tulameen. “Inversions are common in the OkanaganSimilkameen valleys, making our airshed susceptible to the build up of air contaminants that impact human health, visibility, and the environment”, said Chair Dan Ashton, “we can do our part by reducing emissions from open burning and eliminate the burning of garbage”.
The Open Air Burning Season opened October 15 requiring residents to hold a valid calendar year permit. Permits can be obtained online at www.rdos.bc.ca.c1ick on Burning Permits, or in person at the Regional District office. Tulameen residents may also apply at their local volunteer fire hall. Residents now have the option of tracking the progress of their application through the online permit tracking system.
To reduce the amount of smoke pollution residents are encouraged to utilize alternatives to burning such as wood waste disposal at their local landfill, local yard waste collection service, or chipping programs. The Open Air Burning bylaw defines yard waste as a compostable material and is not permitted to be burned. However yard waste is accepted free of charge at all local landfills, on each load up to 500 kg (1100 Ib).
Campbell Mountain and Okanagan Falls landfills accept correctly prepared agricultural wood waste and separated wood waste, up to 500 kg (1100 Ib) free of charge. Please ensure loads are covered when transporting to the landfills, untarped loads are charged double the regular landfill tipping fee, with a minimum fee of $10.
Anyone burning without a permit, could receive a fine or be charged with the cost of putting out the fire. Residents are encouraged to report anyone who is illegally burning by calling Penticton Regional Dispatch at 250-490-2300.
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