A recently passed ordinance for Salisbury residents on outdoor fires is in effect.

Do not open burn; use approved burn containers constructed of masonry, metal or other non-combustible rigid material. Approved containers include UL- approved outdoor fireplaces, such as outdoor stoves, portable fire pits and chimineas.

Permitted burnable materials include newsprint, cardboard and unpainted/untreated wood. Plastics, rubber, oils, oil absorbent materials, animal or human waste, grasses and leaves are examples of non-burnable items.

Burn containers shall not be used or stored within 25 feet of any structure. Burn bans may be declared by the Salisbury Township Office of Fire Safety/Public Safety, Salisbury Township EMA and/or Lehigh County. Burn bans may also by declared by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or the U.S. Government.

For a full copy of the outdoor fires ordinance, contact the Fire Inspector’s office at 610-797-1447.

The following wildfire information is from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

People are responsible for 98 percent of all wildfires in Pennsylvania. Nearly 85 percent of wildfires in Pennsylvania occur during March, April and May prior to greening of woodlands. Mild winters like this past season can increase the severity of wildfires due to dry conditions and lack of snow to pack down natural vegetation.

Make sure vegetation is mowed 100 feet from a structure, thin and prune coniferous trees, keep wood piles, fuel tanks and other burnable materials 30 feet from structures. Make sure your chimney is cleaned and screened.

Donald Sabo

sergeant/fire marshal

investigations/special services

Salisbury Township Police Department

Office: 610-797-1447

Desk: 484-661-5865