Should Backyard Fires Be Allowed in Royal Oak?

There may be good news on the horizon for Royal Oak residents who enjoy fire pits and wood burning outdoor fireplaces.

The city currently prohibits all open burning, but officials are looking at changing that.

At the Royal Oak City Commission meeting on Monday, resident Pete Collins told commissioners that he had collected signatures from more that 800 residents in support of modifying the current ban.

"I would simply like this spring to enjoy my backyard," Collins said. "I think with rules and stipulations this can be worked out."

Under the current ban, if a neighbor calls "they actually send a fire truck to shut (a fire pit) down," said Commissioner Kyle DuBuc.

DuBuc is hoping the current ordinance can be modified to encourage safe behavior as opposed to a ban.

"Best practices and safe practices are in the best interests of our residents," he said, noting neighboring cities such as Madison Heights, Clawson, Ferndale, Troy and Huntington Woods allow open burning with certain restrictions.

Commissioners voted 5-2 (Patricia Capello and Peggy Goodwin were nay votes) to refer the possible repeal or modification of the open burning ordinance to the administration and city attorney for review. City officials are expected to bring back a recommendation and ordinance language at a future meeting.

What do you think?

Do you think Royal Oak should allow fire pits? Did you know they were illegal in the city? Tell us in the comments section below.