Abstract:
In reaction to media attention during the coronavirus lockdown, Brisbane City Council decided to modify its fire pit regulations for a three-month trial period from June 1 to August 31, 2020. It is unclear how many backyard fires were lit for social purposes during the trial. However, following the trial period, Brisbane City Council residents are now permitted to continue using their fire pits as long as the smoke does not disturb their neighbours and the fire poses no harm to persons or property.
This study analyses the various fire pit regulations in Southeast Queensland’s local government areas, and examines potential impacts of fire pits compared to other sources of smoke from wood combustion. The study also discusses whether the benefits of allowing backyard firepits might exceed the possible health consequences. The paper also includes recommendations on acceptance and criteria for backyard fires with broader consideration of other wood smoke sources.
Authors: S M Ashrafur Rahman, Andrew P Martin, Samuel Wong, GM Hasan Shahriar
Theme: Biomass burning
Keywords: backyard, fire, council, health, fireplace, pits
Award nomination: Emerging Air Quality Professional Award
Presented at: Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand (CASANZ)’s International Clean Air and Environment Conference, September 2022
