The Mississippi Mills Fire Department is reminding all residents that the local fire season officially begins on April 3, 2026. As the province moves into the warmer months, the department is urging every household to review safety requirements and ensure they have the proper documentation before starting any outdoor fires.
Across Ontario, the legislated wildland fire season runs annually from April 1 to October 31. Because approximately 50 percent of all wildland fires are caused by human activity, officials emphasize that following local safety rules is critical to preventing accidental blazes. In 2025, the province recorded 643 wildland fires, covering a total area larger than Prince Edward Island.
To help manage risks, Mississippi Mills maintains a five-level burn risk system. Residents must obtain a free annual burn permit through the online portal and are required to call 613-706-4004 to activate their permit before every individual burn activity. Additionally, the municipality prohibits all open-air burning between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. throughout the fire season. Please note that the municipal Open Air Burning By-law strictly prohibits burning within the development boundaries of the Ward of Almonte and the Village of Pakenham. Failure to follow these rules can result in a $300 fine plus the cost of the fire department’s response.
The local department, led by Fire Chief Mike Williams and staffed by 50 volunteer firefighters, also encourages residents to sign up for Mississippi Mills Community Connect. This free online platform allows families to share important details—such as the presence of pets or specific mobility needs—with emergency responders to help them provide faster, safer assistance during an incident. For further information on provincial fire safety, residents can visit Ontario’s guidelines or provincial resources.
