Outdoor Fires

In all circumstances, bonfires and open fires are prohibited on Pointe-Claire territory. By banning them, the City is limiting the harmful effects of wood combustion on the environment and our health. This combustion produces numerous atmospheric pollutants:

• PM10 and PM2.5 fine particulates;
• Ozone (O₃);
• Carbon monoxide (CO);
• Nitrogen oxides (NO_x);
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs);
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

These pollutants are responsible for increased cardiorespiratory problems in more vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly and people with chronic cardiorespiratory conditions.

The regulations in place help reduce the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere and ensure better air quality for all.

The City of Pointe-Claire also restricts the following activities that contribute to the deterioration of air quality:

• Fireworks using pyrotechnics;
• Processions using fire, flames or pyrotechnics;
• Visual effects using fire, flames or pyrotechnics.

Charcoal- or propane-fired barbecues, patio heaters and similar appliances are allowed and do not require a permit. However, it is necessary to check that these devices are approved.

A few reminders about indoor solid-fuel appliances  

The City has amended its by-laws to tighten standards for the use of wood heating systems. This measure, like the one concerning outdoor fireplaces, was designed to ensure the best possible air quality for our residents. Here are the main points to remember about solid-fuel heating:

• Any new auxiliary heating appliance or fireplace using solid fuel must not emit more than 2.5 g per hour of fine particles into the atmosphere.
• Appliances must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• A certificate attesting to the conformity of the installation of a new solid-fuel heating appliance must be filed with the City’s Planning Department within 30 days of completion of the work.
• An installation permit is required and can be obtained from the Planning Department.
• A maximum of five cords of wood may be stored in the rear setback of a residence.

For more information, please consult the Nuisances By-Law as well as the Construction By-Law.

Bibliographical sources

• MINISTÈRE DE L’ENVIRONNEMENT ET DE LA LUTTE CONTRE LES CHANGEMENTS CLIMATIQUES (MELCC. n.d). Chauffer au bois : est-ce vraiment inoffensif? Retrieved from https://www.mddelcc.gouv.qc.ca/air/chauf-bois/#poele-bois
• MELCC. (2011). Inventaire des émissions des principaux contaminants atmosphériques au Québec en 2008 et évolution depuis 1990. Retrieved from https://www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/air/inventaire/rapport2008.pdf
• MELCC. (2019). Guide de quantification des émissions de gaz à effet de serre, 107 p. Retrieved from https://www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/changements/ges/guide-quantification/guide-quantification-ges.pdf