regulations
& by-laws

Outdoor Burning

Highlands East Bylaw 2019-57 states that SMALL outdoor fires are permitted
ONLY if the following conditions are met:

• There is no daytime burning permitted during the fire season (April 1 to October 31) without a permit.
  Fires may take place only during the time from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
• Your fire can be no greater than 0.6 metres (approximately 24 inches) in diameter.
• Your fire must be setback a minimum of 10 metres from any structure.
• Only environmentally friendly materials may be burned.
• The smoke from your fire cannot interfere with your neighbours or a roadway.
• You must have sufficient tools and water available to put the fire out should the need arise.
• You must be with your fire at all times.

CAMPFIRES are permitted during the day, using the same size restrictions and conditions listed above, ONLY if the fire is used for cooking and warmth. It must be attended at all times.

ALL OTHER FIRES REQUIRE A PERMIT. Visit Highlands East page for more information.

Fireworks

Highlands East Fireworks Bylaw #2020-16 prohibits the setting off of fireworks, whether for consumer use or public display, EXCEPT between 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm on the following dates:

• New Year’s Eve (until 1:00 am)
• Victoria Day: the weekend preceding the statutory holiday
• Canada Day: the weekend preceding and the weekend following Canada Day
• August Civic Holiday: the weekend preceding
• Labour Day: the weekend preceding and the statutory holiday 

In addition, no fireworks are allowed when there is a fire ban/restriction in effect or when open burning is prohibited.

Fines start at $100. 

The by-law was approved in April 2020 to reduce water and air pollution, reduce negative impact on wildlife and pets in the vicinity, and improve quality of life for some residents.

Shoreline Development & Trees

Haliburton County Shoreline Tree Preservation By-law No. 3505 applies to all lands in the County of Haliburton, that are within 30 metres of a watercourse. The Shoreline Tree Preservation By‐law governs the removal or injuring of all trees with a diameter of 5 cm or more. Diameter is measured 1.37 metres from the ground. The goal is to minimize the destruction of trees in order to protect our water resources and sustain a healthy natural environment. 

Learn more here.

Noise

Highlands East Bylaw 2006-45 prohibits any unnecessary noise or sound that may disturb the peace, quiet, rest, enjoyment or comfort or convenience of others is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

boat operation

On most Ontario waterways, there is a speed limit of 10 km/h (6 MPH) within 30 metres (100 feet) of the shore -- commonly referred to as the "10/30 rule". Pleasure craft operators are responsible for their vessel's wash, and are expected to operate in such a manner that the boat's wash does not cause injury to people, erosion of the shoreline, or damage to properties. Pleasure craft must stay well clear of swimmers and properties, adhere to Collision Regulations, and use courtesy and common sense to prevent creating a hazard, a threat, a stress, or an irritant to themselves, to others, to the environment, or to wildlife. Learn more here.

It is illegal to operate a motorized craft without a boating license.

It is illegal to operate any vessel, human powered or motorized, while under the influence of alcohol. 

Learn more about Canada's Small Vessel Regulations.