Resident raises concerns as Tantramar fire bylaw moves forward
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A proposed fire prevention bylaw in Tantramar is moving closer to adoption, but at least one resident says the changes could come with significant costs and unrealistic timelines.
Bylaw 2026-21, which regulates open burning and heating systems across the municipality, was first introduced earlier this year following amalgamation. It appeared in a February committee of the whole meeting before returning to council, and has now reached second and third reading as of April 14.
Concerns over impact on rural residents
The bylaw aims to standardize fire safety rules across Tantramar’s communities. However, during the April 14 council meeting, Sackville resident James MacDonald raised concerns about how those rules could affect homeowners.
“This is going to affect a large portion of the municipality,” said MacDonald.
He pointed specifically to outdoor wood furnaces, which are commonly used in rural areas. MacDonald said some residents installed these systems in good faith and could now face restrictions.
“There’s people that have put these in in good faith… and now they’re being told that they may not be able to use them.”
Financial burden and lack of evidence questioned
MacDonald also warned of the potential financial impact if residents are required to replace or modify their systems.
“This could cost people tens of thousands of dollars,” he said.
He questioned whether there is enough evidence to support the changes, saying he has not seen proof that existing systems are causing the issues being cited.
“I haven’t seen anything that shows that these are causing the problems that are being suggested.”
Timeline and grandfathering concerns
He also raised concerns about the timeline for compliance, suggesting the proposed deadline may not be realistic for residents facing major upgrades.
“To expect people to make these kinds of changes by September… I don’t think that’s reasonable.”
MacDonald urged council to consider grandfathering existing systems to avoid forcing immediate changes.
“There should be some kind of grandfathering for people who already have these systems.”
Council is expected to continue moving the bylaw through the legislative process before making a final decision.
Clinton Davis is a community journalist and audio producer covering the people, events, and ideas shaping the Tantramar region.
