Baldwin Borough officials last night approved the advertisement of an ordinance designed to regulate open burning in the borough that establishes rules and enforcement criteria, including penalties, for any violations.

Borough Solicitor Stanley Lederman said the ordinance was necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents and that council felt such an ordinance was in the best interest of borough citizens.

Action on the proposed ordinance, which is available for public viewing at the borough office, is planned for Nov. 24.

Officials discovered the lack of adequate regulations regarding open burning when a McAnnulty Road resident in August complained about health issues regarding the use of backyard chimineas and other types of recreational fire pits.

The ordinance requires the use of approved outdoor receptacles for burning, prohibits the release of noxious or unpleasant odors and smoke, restricts fires from being closer than 15 feet to a structure, prohibits any burning from midnight until 7 a.m. and requires fires to be attended at all times.

Any violations to the ordinance are subject to a $600 fine for each violation and citation before a district judge.

The ordinance will become effective immediately upon council's action.

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