Residents of the Foothills MD no longer have to track down a fire guardian if they want to get a burning permit.

The MD has moved to an online system.

Leslie Lambert with the MD  says there's three steps to the process.

"You are asked specific questions about what you are burning and your address and other parameters that are included in the burning permit and you have to acknowledge and respond to each one of these before you can proceed to the next step," she says. " It ensures that the applicant knows the rules for burning."

“Having Burning Permits available online is going to improve the process and accessibility for residents” said Fire Chief Jim Smith. It will also make a significant impact on the ability of the Fire Department’s knowledge of controlled burns and response when needed.”

The permit means the applicant understands what they can and cannot burn, and what kind of weather conditions they can burn in and it also gives the fire department dispatch number they need to call just before igniting the fire.

Lambert says once it's completed it goes to the fire department and the applicant will receive the permit and any other requirements by e-mail.

Residents without access to a computer can still find a fire guardian or go to the Heritage Heights fire hall and get a permit.  The local Fire Guardian list is found online at the MD’s website.

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