[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Trustees
of the Village of Poquott 2-13-1931 as Ordinance 10 of the 1931 Village
Ordinances. Amendments noted where applicable.]
[Amended 12-17-2017 by L.L. No. 2-2019[1]]
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
A large outdoor fire utilized for ceremonial purposes, i.e.,
organizational, school, religious events.
See "recreational fire."
The burning of debris for the purpose of ridding a property
of rubbish, garbage, or excess landscaping debris, including leaves,
grass, branches, and the like.
A small outdoor fire of burning materials other than rubbish
for the purpose of pleasure, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes.
[Amended 12-17-2017 by L.L. No. 2-2019]
A.
No person shall build or cause to be built, or ignite or cause to
be ignited, any fire, including bonfires, on the streets, parks, beaches,
lots, yards, or public places within the Village of Poquott. Exceptions
for small recreational fires (campfires) are allowable with conditions
as follows.
B.
Most frequently residents of the Village are interested in having
an outdoor fire for enjoyment by family and friends. This is known
as a recreational fire. The Village respects this interest but is
also obligated to enforce the Fire Code of New York State, which requires
the following when maintaining a recreational fire:
(1)
A fire shall not be conducted within 25 feet of any structure or
combustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread
to within 25 of any structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
Examples of structures: decks, sheds, houses. Examples of combustible
materials: fallen leaves, mulch, stored firewood.
(2)
The fuel area shall be contained and be three feet or less in diameter
and two feet or less in height. Fire area must be noncombustible,
including bottom, and have either a chimney or a screen cover.
(3)
Fire shall be continuously attended until the fire is completely
extinguished.
(4)
A method of immediate extinguishment of the fire, such as a garden
hose (charged with water), fire extinguisher, water barrel with bucket,
etc., shall be ready at all times.
C.
Other items to consider:
(1)
Fuel. Firewood is most commonly used for recreational fires. Charcoal
and propane-fueled recreational fires are also allowed. However, treated
or painted wood is not to be used. Wet firewood or large logs tend
to increase smoke (see below). Small, dry firewood produces less smoke
and a more enjoyable campfire.
(2)
Wind. At times of high winds such as on "breezy days," unintentional
spread of fire can easily occur. Residents should refrain from igniting
a recreational fire during these conditions.
(3)
Neighbors. Residents should maintain an awareness of smoke and noise
conditions and be considerate of neighbors. Smoke from any fire will
travel horizontally and can enter neighbors' homes through open
windows or into their yard, where they, too, may be enjoying their
time outside.
(4)
Code Enforcement will respond to complaints regarding smoke and/or
noise conditions and may request that recreational fires be extinguished.
Failure to comply may result in a summons.
(5)
In addition, local weather conditions such as prolonged dryness may
prompt the County, Town, or Setauket Fire Marshal to prohibit any
type of fire including "recreational fires."
[Amended 10-25-2007 by L.L. No. 2-2007]
Any person found guilty of a violation of the
provisions of this chapter shall be punishable by a fine of not more
than $250, imprisonment for up to 15 days, or both, for each offense.
