HRM's proposed outdoor fireplace bylaw goes too far

Chimineas and other outdoor wood-burning appliances are not as dangerous as some people say. A proposed bylaw that would ban them in the city goes too far. All that's needed is some rules and guidance on how to use them.

Halifax regional council debated this topic in 2003 but decided against banning them. Former fire chief Mike Eddy said then he was trying to prevent property damage and loss of life. There has been little or no indication that the outdoor fireplaces are to blame for either of those.

But now, in another effort to get them banned, the fire department has raised the issue of air quality. It says that some people are not using them properly.

They burn garbage, yard waste, or wet wood and that causes too much smoke.

The issue, then, would be to get people to use them properly. A chiminea or outdoor fireplace is no different than a wood stove or indoor fireplace.

They work best - and create much less smoke - when you burn seasoned, dry hardwood.

Another problem is that when someone doesn't use it properly, the city sends a fire truck and a crew of firefighters to look after it.

What they should do is send a bylaw enforcement officer to give them a ticket. That would dissuade people from using them as incinerators to burn stuff they just want to get rid of.

If used properly, with the right kind of wood, a chiminea can provide a homeowner with a great way to enjoy their backyard.

They are like a controlled campfire and do not present a risk as long as the people using them use a little common sense.

But, as the old adage goes, you can't legislate common sense. Sometimes, you need to have rules in place.

In this case, some rules are necessary - but rules that would amount to a total ban go too far.

The city should amend the proposed bylaw and allow people to enjoy chimineas in a safe manner.