Some fans of backyard bonfires can soon do so legally in Grand Rapids.
City commissioners voted four to three on Tuesday evening to allow recreational fires under certain conditions. The vote followed multiple public comments, including a poem written by a resident against the measure.
The open burning ordinance is a structured pilot program that’ll operate with residential permits.
It’s open to single or two-family properties meeting a minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet and other restrictions, including approval of adjacent neighbors.
A new amendment also stipulates fires must be put out by 10 p.m.
Residential outdoor fires have been a sticking point in Grand Rapids for some time. The latest effort was introduced by First Ward Commissioner Jon O’Connor following grassroots efforts by residents that included an online petition with a bit more than 2,500 signatures.
Supporters point to other local cities with open burning rules, such as Wyoming and Kentwood. Critics of the move cite air pollution, noise and the potential of serious damage.
The approval was split by ward, with First Ward Commissioners O’Connor and Dave Shaffer, and Third Ward commissioners David Allen and Senita Lenear voting yes.
Second Ward commissioners Joe Jones and Ruth Kelly and Mayor Rosalynn Bliss voted no.
