There have been recent questions about open burning (fires) in Marshall. The Marshall City Council amended and passed the new city burning ordinance, Ordinance 95.03 on June 1, 2020.
Marshall City ordinance 95.03 does allow for recreational types of fires in the City of Marshall. Here are some of the ordinance's highlights:
- Recreational fires must be fueled by seasoned dry fire wood, charcoal, compressed wood logs or bricks, or BBQ pellets.
- All fires must be at least 25 feet away from any structure.
- There must always be an adult attending to the fire.
- There must be a way to extinguish the fire at hand (garden hose ready or extinguisher).
- The wind speed must be less than 15mph.
- The fire must be 4 feet or less in diameter.
- The fire must be extinguished before being left unattended.
- Fires cannot last longer than 4 hours in duration.
- The property owner where the fire is taking place will be responsible criminally and civilly for any damages that occur from the fire getting out of their control.
- The Fire Department can prohibit recreational fires for atmospheric or other conditions where a recreational fire would constitute a fire hazard or would endanger the health or property of any person. We often reference the State of Michigan Fire Safety Map for guidance. Please understand that the fire department is only concerned with your safety and the safety of the community as a whole.
- Fires to dispose of residential (yard) waste, agricultural waste, garbage or litter are NOT permitted, and are the main reason for the burning complaints received and acted upon by the Fire Department. Yard and agricultural debris waste can be taken to the Municipal City Compost Center on Homer Road for disposal. For their hours see Compost Center Page.
- Any illegal burns are civil infractions and will lead to fines. 1st offense is $100, 2nd offense is $300 and additional offenses are $500. The fire will also be extinguished.
If you have any questions, or need guidance, call the Fire Department at 269-781-3922. If unavailable, call Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Center at 269-781-0911 to locate your fire staff.