Police Department
Reference: Amend Code to Enact Open Fire and Burning Restrictions
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael Martinez, City Manager
Prepared By: Paul Southard Chief of Police
Date Prepared: June 3, 2022
PURPOSE
To discuss the topic of amending Chapter 8 of the Brighton Municipal Code Municipal code by the addition of section 8-40 to enact open fire and burning restrictions.
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA
Facilities, Amenities, and Open Space
Safe, Active and Engaged Community
Supportive, Sustainable Infrastructure
Strong Regional Relationships and Partnerships
BACKGROUND
Recent large scale fires caused by severe drought conditions have become a regular occurrence in all of Colorado. As we have witnessed, major fires have encroached on many areas along the Denver Metro urban corridor. It is not uncommon to see fires consuming large swaths of land and entire residential neighborhoods.
Currently there is nothing in the Code authorizing fire restrictions when conditions warrant it. This amendment will provide the authority to issue restrictions on open burning that will rest with the City Manager who, upon consultation with the Fire Marshall of the Brighton Fire Rescue District, may or may not issue a ban.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
1) Move forward with an ordinance amending Chapter 8-40 of the Brighton Municipal Code allowing the City Manager to enact open fire and burning restrictions.
2) Deny approval of the ordinance and don’t move forward with this project, thus hindering the ability to take action on unsafe burning during drought and high wind conditions.
3) Offer modifications to the ordinance.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
In the interest of furthering public safety staff recommends amending Chapter 8-40 by authorizing the ability of the City Manager in consultation with the Fire Official to enact open fire and burning restrictions.