special committee of the whole 7:00 p.m. 109 james …

SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

Monday, August 29, 2011 7:00 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers

109 James Street Geneva, IL 60134

AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Items of Business

a. Policy Discussion on Cemetery Maintenance b. Policy Discussion on Downtown Parkways c. Policy Discussion on State Street Parkway Trees d. Policy Discussion on Pace Shelter Advertising Program e. Policy Discussion on Recreational Fires (Title 10, Chapter 4, Section 307 – Open

Burning) f. Discussion on Enterprise Resource Planning Software System

3. New Business 4. Upcoming Meetings: Committee of the Whole: September 12, 2011. 5. Adjournment

AGENDA ITEM EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Agenda Item: Policy Discussion Item - Cemetery Maintenance

Presenter & Title: Dan Dinges, Director of Public Works Steve LeMaire, Superintendent of Streets & Fleet

Date: August 24, 2011

Please Check Appropriate Box: Committee of the Whole Meeting X Special Committee of the Whole Meeting City Council Meeting Special City Council Meeting Public Hearing Other -

Estimated Cost: N/A Budgeted? YES NO

If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: Executive Summary: Cemetery maintenance has been an item of discussion over the last few years. Alderman Hill has worked to form a volunteer group to assist with the maintenance efforts which has helped however keeping up with the maintenance is still a concern. Weed control has also been requested but is currently not budgeted. Staff has previously presented options for improving maintenance at the Cemeteries:

• Consider outsourcing landscape maintenance • Consider selling Cemetery property between the river and IL Rt 25

Attachments: (please list)

• Budget Summary • Map

Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain) No recommendation. Policy discussion only.

FY 2011-12Budget

FY 2011-12 Available Turf

Funds

FY 2011-12 Budgetw/ Revisions

Transfers $40,000 $40,000

Sale of Lots $18,000 $18,000

Grave Openings $26,500 $26,500

Sale of Markers $1,000 $1,000

Infant Graves/Ashes $1,000 $1,000

Interest $1,500 $1,500

Misc. Revenue $500 $500

Reappropriation $20,185 $20,185

Subtotal Revenues $108,685 $108,685

8/24/2011 1

FY 2011-12Budget

FY 2011-12 Available Turf

Funds

FY 2011-12 Budgetw/ Revisions

Wages $51,450 ? $51,450

Wages – Part-Time $8,470 $8,470 $0.00

Group Insurance $12,170 ? $10,610

IMRF $6,415 ? $6,415

FICA $4,585 ? $4,585

Insurance $19,495 $19,495

Purchased Power $2,000 $2,000

Supplies $4,000 $3,500 $500pp , ,

Other Misc. $100 $100

Subtotal Expenses $108,685 $11,970+ $22,095+8/24/2011 2

FY 2011-12 Available Turf Funds ~$12,000 - $62,000

Alaniz Proposal: $875/mowing (West side & Oak Hill)

32 Mowings(~8 months x 1/week)

$28,000

50 Mowings(Allows for extra mowing during

$43,750

g gSpring/Fall)

8/24/2011 3

Division St

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Walnut Hill Ave

High StDowning Pl

Locust Ave

Lucylle Ct

Stone Fence Ln

Moor

e Ct

6th Av

e

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Elm St

Fox River

0 500250

Feet

This map is intended for use as reference only; the data is subject to change without notice. Original base maps provided via intergovernmental agreement with Kane County GIS-Technologies. Reproduction without permission from the City of Geneva is forbidden.

LEGEND

Proposed Sale of City-Owned PropertyProposed Sale of City-Owned Property

GENERATED BY:City of Geneva, Illinois

Engineering DivisionH.L. - May 2011µ Proposed Sale - City-Owned Property

Proposed Sale - Right of Way to be Vacated

Parcel Lines


Agenda Item: Policy Discussion Item - Downtown Parkways

Presenter & Title: Dan Dinges, Director of Public Works Steve LeMaire, Superintendent of Streets & Fleet



Estimated Cost: N/A Budgeted? YES NO

If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: Executive Summary: Over the years the City has had requests by businesses and organizations regarding the use of the City’s parkways and conversion from grass parkway to hardscape (bricks). For example, several years ago the Rotary Club requested to install the Rotary Clock and pavers at the southwest corner of Third St. & Franklin St. where they have a booth each year during Swedish Days. The Rotary Club’s request went through the City Council for approval and was paid for by the Rotary Club. Staff has recently been approached by the Knights of Columbus for a similar request. They have a booth during Swedish Days located at the southeast corner of Third St. and James St. Every year the grass parkway turns into a muddy mess and requires restoration after the event. The Knights of Columbus has asked if pavers could be installed? They have also asked if the City could supply the bricks? Another request we received is the paving of the parkway for a business to place tables and chairs. We have informed the business that a lease agreement is required which requires City Council approval. The Policy questions are as follows:

• Is the City Council ok with “green” parkway space being converted to hardscape (bricks) in the downtown?

Is the City Council interested in partially funding these requests? Currently there are no funds available for these types of requests so it would require a budget amendment. Attachments: (please list)

None Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain) No recommendation. Policy discussion only.


Agenda Item: Parkway Trees on State Street,

Presenter & Title: Steve LeMaire, Superintendent of Streets, Fleet and Forestry



Estimated Cost: 0 Budgeted? YES NO

If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: Executive Summary: The topic of discussion is whether parkway trees should be placed in sidewalk along State Street. Several issues have developed: 1. Staff has received many requests from merchants to either remove or trim the trees to provide better visibility for the store fronts. Staff has performed trimming to the trees to provide better visibility but the type of trimming is not healthy for the trees. 2. Eventually, the trees grow too large and into the adjacent buildings. It has been difficult to identify a tree species that doesn’t grow too large and one that doesn’t have low growing limbs that can cause an obstruction for pedestrians. 3. Replacement of the existing trees has become a problem due to the root ball and root system. The root ball & system have grown too large to remove and replant another tree in the same location. Due to the small opening (tree pit), using a stump grinder or a tree spade is not possible. Therefore another tree cannot be placed back into the same tree pit. An option to discuss: Eliminate the parkway trees and place mobile planters at these locations and ask the adjacent merchants to plant and provide periodic watering to the planters. The planters would be removed in the winter and re-installed in the spring. Public Works currently performs this type of activity for the Beautification Group and could incorporate this at the same time frame.

Attachments: (please list)

• None Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain) No recommendation. Policy discussion only.


Agenda Item: Pace Shelter Advertisement Program

Presenter & Title: Mary McKittrick, City Administrator



Estimated Cost: N/A

Budgeted? YES N/A NO

If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: Executive Summary: Pace has proposed their bus shelter advertising program in Geneva. Attachments: (please list) Reference materials Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain) No recommendation. Policy Discussion.


Agenda Item: Title 10, Building Regulations, Chapter 4, Fire Prevention and Safety, Paragraph 104-3, Amendments, Section 307, Open Burning

Presenter & Title: Mary McKittrick, City Administrator



Estimated Cost: N/A Budgeted? YES

N/A NO If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: N/A Executive Summary: The Committee of the Whole directed staff to research the issue of recreational fires at its February 28, 2011 meeting. The current code is as follows: Section 307 Open Burning 307.1 Open Burning Prohibited. The burning in open fires of any combustible material, including, but not limiting the generally of the foregoing, automotive or locomotive equipment or parts, industrial wastes, paints, oils, wood and fibers, plastics, paper, garbage, debris, leaves, brush or other refuse within the City shall be prohibited. Exceptions: 1. Fires started and attended by the fire department personnel of the City for purposes of instruction in methods of fire fighting, for research in control of fires, in emergency or other extraordinary circumstances for any purpose determined to be necessary by the fire official. 2. Festive and/or ceremonial burnings with a special permit that has been issued by the fire chief. 3. Fires started for the purpose of burning diseased trees within the city with a special permit that has been issued by the fire chief. 4. Open fires used for cooking food at public or private gatherings provided that such fires are used exclusively for said cooking food and the size of the fire is commensurate to the food being cooked. 5. Fires used for horticultural management purposes to restore or increase the quantity or quality of horticultural maintenance provided that:

a. A permit has been issued by the Illinois environmental protection agency (IEPA) and a copy submitted to the fire chief.

b. All conditions specified in the IEPA permit are followed. c. The fire official shall be notified not less than twenty four (24) hours prior to the burning. d. Burning is postponed or suspended when wind conditions are likely to carry smoke and/or airborne particulates into populated areas.

Section 315.2.5, add: 315.2.5 Clearance to Combustibles. Combustible materials shall be maintained no less than thirty six inches (36”) from heat producing appliances.

Attachments: (please list) Research materials Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain) No recommendation. Policy discussion only.

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RECREATONAL FIRE ORDINANCE DISCUSSION August 29, 2011

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Committee of the Whole Minutes – February 28, 2011 Page 1

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MINUTES FEBRUARY 28, 2011

Present: Mayor Burns (arrived at 7:07pm), Ald. Brown, Dantino (arrived at 7:03pm), Flanagan,

Hill, Maladra, Marks, Piper, Singer Absent: Ald. Pawlak, Vogelsberg Also present: McKittrick, Dawkins, Untch, Divita, Broviak, Atty. Radovich 1. Call to Order *2. Approve Committee of the Whole Minutes from February 22, 2011. Moved by Ald. Brown, second by Ald. Marks. V/V: 7-0 Motion carried. 3. Items of Business

a. Consider Draft Resolution Authorizing Bid Contract with Safe Step LLC in An Amount Not to

Exceed $30,000.00 for 2011 Sidewalk Trip Hazard Sawing Project. Moved by Ald. Brown, second by Ald. Flanagan Broviak explained the process involved in the project that was before the committee for approval. V/V: 8-0 Motion carried. b. Consider Draft Resolution Authorizing Second Amendment to Lease Agreement

Between 124 State LLC and the City of Geneva Related to Public Parking Lot (east of former Viking Office Supply).

Moved by Ald. Singer, second by Ald. Maladra Attorney Radovich reviewed the terms of the lease and easement amendments. V/V: 8-0 Motion carried. c. Consider Draft Resolution Authorizing Third Amendment to Easement Agreement

Between the City of Geneva and 124 State LLC to Allow for Ingress/Egress to Public Parking Lot at Former Viking Office Supply.

Moved by Ald. Brown, second by Ald. Marks V/V: 8-0 Motion carried.

Committee of the Whole Minutes – February 28, 2011 Page 2

d. Consider Approval of City-Initiated Amendments to the Geneva Zoning Ordinance. Moved by Ald. Singer, second by Ald. Maladra Dir. Untch reviewed each amendment noting the need for corrections and updates on issues such as parking setbacks and hardscape improvements to name a few. V/V: 8-0 Motion carried. e. Consider Draft Resolution Authorizing Contract with WBK and Land Vision for

Professional Engineering and Urban Planning Services: Geneva South East Subarea Plan.

Moved by Ald. Maladra, second by Ald. Marks Dir. Divita reviewed the council’s policy decision to conduct the study on the acreage to be developed. Divita stated that the City should strive to have more industrial property to help ease the tax burden on residential property owners. Divita noted that partial funds for the project will come from grants, some by in-house engineering. On a question from some aldermen, Divita gave an general overview on all of the parcels in the south Geneva subarea. V/V: 8-0 Motion carried. f. Presentation on the 2011 Classification and Compensation Plan Benchmark Study. Director Dawkins provided a presentation on the findings of the benchmark compensation study including the scope of the project, findings and recommendations. Dawkins stated that the findings would be incorporated into the 2011/12 budget. No action.

4. New Business Geneva resident Colin Campbell presented information and materials concerning the code banning open burning in Geneva and urged the council to reconsider based on the fact that fire pits are now a popular and common part of many residences. Campbell provided code information from surrounding communities – all of which allow certain types of open burning. A consensus of the committee agreed to have appropriate staff review the code. 5. Adjournment On a motion by Ald. Brown, second by Ald. Flanagan, the meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote at 8:25pm.

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Highlight

Brief Summary

Online Poll

• In a non‐scientific poll, 90% of people felt that the City should allow recreational fires.

• Of those who felt we should have a policy, there were a lot of comments supporting strict regulation, with allowances for outdoor fireplaces.

• Of those who did not want the ordinance, most feared the “noxious” odors and some feared increased problems for asthmatic children.

• Many residents felt that it would be very hard to enforce and had questions about enforcement.

Ordinance Summary

• There is a wide variety of ordinances on the issue.

• Two of the communities had similar ordinances to Geneva, Glen Ellyn and Glenview.

• Seven communities allowed fires only in manufactured fire pits or outdoor fire places.

• Seven communities allowed manufactured outdoor fire places as well as “homemade” fire pits that meet certain guidelines.

• One community allows open burning of leaves as well as recreational fires.

Comparable Communities

• To get responses Administrative Intern Zach Creer called each Fire Department surveyed.

• Eleven of the seventeen communities gave their responses. In a lot of cases, people were on Spring break.

• Hard to draw concrete conclusions based on the comparable community surveys, wide variety of opinions.

• No community wanted a more restrictive ordinance than the one they currently had, with the exception of Lake Zurich, which felt the more restrictive city ordinances were easier to enforce.

• Most frequent calls were about odor, as well as confusion about what is allowed under the ordinance.

• The level of resources was variable as the role in enforcement for the fire departments was different in each community. In many communities it was more of a burden for police, who according the fire stations received the calls in most cases.

Yes, 218, 90%

Currently recreational fires in the backyards of Geneva residents are only allowed for the preparation of food. Would you support allowing recreational fires, such as fire pits, outdoor fire places and chimeneas, in Geneva residents’

backyards for recreational uses? Any comments?

Yes

No

No, 22, 9%

I Don't Know, 2, 1%

I Don't Know

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3 I have several neighbors with outdoor fireplaces already. The biggest concern for me is the lack of attention to safety ‐ they burn too much at one time, too close to the house (sometimes on a wooden deck attached to the house), and without using the lids on fireplaces to prevent burning embers from escaping. The smoke is a nuisance when they burn too much at once or they burn scrap wood products instead of firewood. They also don't seem to be concerned about the additional risks of burning during strong winds. I guess I just don't understand the recreational value of creating such a safety hazard.

5 When your neighbors light one of these your whole house smells like fire pit....because it's still warm enough to have the windows open!

7 People are already doing this. I won't name names, but I see them in my neighborhood. So, most people don't know they aren't allowed. I didn't, although I don't use one. You need to get the word out about this and have sensible, non‐onerous regulations. What does the fire department recommend?

13 Why is this not already allowed? Most residents I know have been doing this for years!!16 I have no problem with the proposal but would like it worded to the effect that so long as no objectionable odors or excessive smoke is emitted."

17 This is the same as our indoor fireplaces. I can smell wood burning most of the year in the neighborhood. Most other communities allow this including St. Charles and Batavia. Thank you.

18 People in our area use fire pits ‐ they take rotten wood from the forest nearby and it smells like burning garbage.24 As a family with asthma we would prefer that no burning of any type be allowed including fire pits, outdoor fire places and chimeneas. The smoke

an odor from outdoor burning makes it difficult for members of our family to breathe. Thanks!32 I support gas logs and pits with screens. With either one we wouldn't have flying sparks. It is also the parents responsibility to make sure their

children and neighbor children are kept safe. Open fires are not meant to cook food. Grills are.

33 Yes, this is a good idea. We can not enjoy our backyards like other communities can. An added benefit is that it will reduce the number of nuisance calls to 911 and reduce the response of the Fire Department to these non events.

34 [Yes] Absolutely39 Fire pits and chimeneas have been sold for years by area stores and used for food preparation" aka recreational fires. I doubt most residents know

that recreational fires are prohibited. It's about time it was resolved."41 So long as they were safe and provided necessary protection from burning embers.42 My wife and I received a small metal fire pit" from one of our adult sons not realizing that use of such fire pits was currently prohibited by

ordinance within City limits. We would love to use it occasionally in the early spring or the fall but obviously we can't currently use it. We would be in favor of changing the ordinance to allow recreational fires. Thank you Mark & Sue Sartell"

Currently recreational fires in the backyards of Geneva residents are only allowed for the preparation of food. Would you support allowing recreational fires, such as fire pits, outdoor fire places and chimeneas, in Geneva residents’ backyards for recreational uses in

addition to food preparation? Any Comments?

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43 As long as people understood what is permissible to burn and what is not. Anything that would cause drifting ashes probably isn't too safe. There is also a concern about pollution. I believe if people burned only wood, and if they had to extinguish to fire by midnight, it might be okay.

44 My first objection is that fire pits are a fire hazard. One of my neighbors lights his fire pit right next to his fireplace log pile! Who is going to monitor the safety of all of these pits? Three of my closest neighbors are using fire pits already! My second objection is that fire pits cause unnecessary pollution. Why should I have to close my windows on a cool breezy night when one of my neighbors chooses to light his fire pit? I thought Geneva was promoting the green movement.

47 Many towns allow outdoor burning in approved fire pits. If they are currently not permitted why did you allow them to be sold in local stores?

48 The intelligent use of fire has been with man and woman since the dawn of time. Let us reinstate the ability to enjoy a small well managed fire in our backyards. Thank you.

51 These are allowed in so many places already, there is no real valid reason to restrict them in Geneva. 55 I believe backyard recreational fires should be allowed as long as they are not used for burning leaves or garbage.59 We would need to set rules about size allowed, minors and adult supervision, proximity to flammable materials and structures. 62 Recreational fires are OK, Limit Size, Limit Time Midnight"64 providing that there is sufficient screening to prevent sparks from alighting to a roof top or somewhere where would ignite combustible material.

65 Burning wood in a fire pit, is no different than burning wood in your fireplace. It smells the same and puts out smoke.66 the smoke comes into the house and smells bad.69 A fire pit of any type lends itself to family and friend bonding. Its a great relaxing event that hurts no one. 71 I enjoy having recreational fires and feel strongly we should be permitted to do this in Geneva.72 The fire pits are a great way for neighbors to get together in the evenings occasionally, and keep each other up to date on friend and family issues.

I got to know many more folks though the sitting around the campfire" and telling stories in various back yards. The group that I'm with are respectful and are safety minded. The evenings around a fire pit can be just as beneficial to the mind as going fishing with a friend. Perhaps sell an inexpensive yearly permit to screen applicants? Sincerely, Dan Dunn"

73 I think as long as the fires are contained in a fire pit that they should be allowed. 75 [Yes] I thought it was already legal.76 In residential areas where houses are close together, how will you control the smoke? What if your neighbor has asthma or emphysema?

77 There is nothing better than sitting around a fire pit on a cool evening. Thanks.83 Absolutely not. We have banned the burning of leaves, why would we allow fire pits? People have open windows to their homes, adults and

children have allergies, and I view them as a general nuisance and infringement on my ability to enjoy clean air. They need to be banned completely.

87 people in our area do it anyway. No problem as long as they have the right type of pit and it is monitored.97 It could be done on a trial basis to see if there are any unintended consequences.

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99 My neighbor has been using a fire pit for the 51/2 years I lived here. The smoke goes into my house so I have to close the windows so I won't be choking on it. The flames go 8 to 12 feet high because they use gasoline to start it and then in the fall they burn leaves in it. Don't let this happen. I like to leave my windows open without my house smelling like smoke inside.

100 Not in the downtown area! Last fall, my neighbors were burning large chunks of wood in a fire pit. Sparks were flying everywhere and smoke was terrible. Even with windows closes, the smell was awful. After a week or so, I finally called the FD. Aside from the irritating smoke, it seemed very dangerous. Houses are too close together and this seems like a disaster waiting to happen.

106 Regulated Fire Pits for recreation should be allowed just as they are everywhere else. Regulations should include size and prohibit use that is dangerous or a nuisance.

110 With limitations as to size and windiness113 Don't do it!!! Batavia relaxed their code and people burn morning, noon, and night ‐ garden waste and unseasoned wood. A few bad apples have

taken advantage and push the ordinance to the limit and beyond. The City does not have the manpower to police this. IF you do allow, I would put time and season restrictions. When the windows are open no one wants to have that smell wafting into their homes. Maybe have people apply for permits (a little revenue for the City and a way to control the issue.

114 The City should allow these, but with criteria such as certain fire pit, etc. parameters (size/shape/material/ring/location/clearance of debris surrounding), must be 16 years or older unless adult present, a water supply near by, no leave burning or wet wood that produces annoying smoke, only on days when the wind is less than say 10 mph and fully extinguished when done. I'm sure the fire dept. can weigh in on setting reasonable guidelines. Having a pleasant fire creates family memories with kids, teaches fire safety, and allows people to enjoy their backyard with friends without having to spend a lot in these tough economic times.

118 Everyone in the neighborhood seems to have fire pits and outdoor fireplaces. I had no idea that recreational fires were not allowed.

122 Most people use good judgment and are responsible. The city should have a few guidelines so people aren't burning brush piles, etc. The fire should be properly contained on rocks or cement base and not allowed in windy conditions. There should probably be a time restriction like fires extinguished by 11:00 PM in the evening.

125 Why were these recreational uses not included with the original ordinance? Time for the city to get with the times.128 [Yes] Please133 There's nothing better than to live in Geneva and every so often have friends over on the deck for some wine and grilling along with a small

outdoor fire place or chimenea. I've talked about it among my neighbors and everyone seems to feel that it is not such a nuisance as lets say burning leaves. I live on the Fox River and friends come from miles around to visit us. Heck,, I grew up here and even miss the smell of burning leaves! I understand the medical problems associated with intense leaf and brush burning and would certainly obey any laws my town enforces... I actually didn't know however that you couldn't burn recreationally here in Geneva..

136 I have talked with Geneva firemen who think this ban is pointless. Please amend this ordinance. 137 As long as people don't try to burn leaves in their portable (as in Weber) fire pits, I absolutely don't have a problem with it.

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145 [No] The issue, as I see t, isn't a yes/no question... It's notThe recreational fire pit or chimenea that's the problem.It's the uncontrolled smoke from these items ( Kane countyhas a ban on leaf burning of this reason) that affectsyour neighbors. If the ordinance could be set sothat neighbors would have legitimate recourse to request a fire be extinguished if they were beingdistressed by it or denied legitimate use of theiroutside area because of it (allergies, asthma, etc.) there might be room for reasonable compromise. You also must consider thepotential fire threat to those with shake shingle roofs or primarily wood shingled homes. No smoldering fires allowed, fires thoroughly doused when finished ... Only allowed duringcertain hours...

146 The alderman who suggested keeping the present ban on fire pits used no logic what so ever. No fires no complaints" is silly. How about banning pets so that there are no complaints about them. Or lets ban all skateboards so that there are no complaints about them. Where is the logic?"

151 Small, well built, cement/brick fire pits" should be allowed. They are a fun summer/fall activity to meet and chat with friends, family and neighbors. I would definitely be against bonfires which currently do occur within the city limits and in city parks!"

152 Yes, as long as they are NOT placed on wooden/plastic decks, as that would be a fire hazard, and also, that residents douse their fires with water when returning in‐doors. Thank you.

161 There has to regulations, though, as to distance from house, trees, lot line, wooden fence, etc. You would think this would be common sense, but from what I have witnessed it is not. Therefore, because safety is foremost, regulations are a must.

163 I believe you would find many residents already using fire pits /fire places in their backyards‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐please amend these restrictions.

165 As long as people aren't burning trash or leaves I'm ok with it.171 There are so many fire pits out there in use for 'recreation' you might as well make it legal. Or residents will continue to keep a bag of

marshmallows and a stick by the fire pit at all times.173 [Yes] While I think it's a great idea, I think it's going to be difficult to keep it from small recreational fires by the responsible people and the huge

bonfires that get out of control by the irresponsible people. How will they be monitored?181 such great family and friend memories are made sitting around fires...safe fires, that is...this has my full support190 As with everything, you'll have the few residents that aren't smart with recreational fires. But saying that, not all residents should suffer because of

it. There is nothing like an outdoor fire on a cool evening to bring family, friends and neighbors together for a relaxing evening. I say YES to the recreational fires.

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191 Depending upon the density of the housing in a given area, smoke from outdoor fires can be very obnoxious to neighbors. I have experienced this. But the occasion when this happens is very rare. I would say that the ordinance should permit fires, but it should also stipulate that the fires must be put out if neighbors complain about the smoke and odor. To avoid a personal confrontation, residents should be able to call the fire department to have them notify the offending neighbor. If the order to put out a fire is ignored, a citation should be issued.

198 There has to be a way to protect neighbors with asthma or are sensitive to smoke, especially children or the elderly. The smoke can be highly irritating.

200 Perhaps a lot size requirement would be appropriate? When talking about the zero lot line" properties it may not work to have backyard fires as it would be so close to structures. However on a standard lot it should be Ok"

204 While I support the allowance for recreational outdoor fires, I implore the Council to consider an ordinance containing strong language and penalty against fires used for burning leaves and garbage and against fires too large or otherwise poorly controlled. Not only need the ordinance contain such language, but this sentiment must be communicated clearly to residents and enforced as warranted.

205 Yes!209 How would compliance be monitored and enforced?211 Of course I would for the purpose of recreational use; however, I would recommend that the ordinance states the specific type of items that can

and cannot be burned. For example, I would not promote the burning of leaves and plant materials; but would encourage the burning of wood. The current rule is much too restrictive. We need to respect the environment; but in a sensible way.

213 Back yard fire pits have become main stream in society as we all try to spend time outside in the summer with our families. Not allowing this is simply archaic and a waste of time and money to our city to enforce this outdated rule.

214 as long as there are safety guidelines and regulations. 217 People around us burn fire pits often with the result that we have to keep our doors and windows closed. Not fair on a beautiful summer night!!!

218 As long as there were limits to what can be used, similar to the limits imposed by other towns with this policy.219 thanks for considering this.220 How would the ordinance be enforced? At what cost? We have a water use ordinance that is ignored by many who are never cited. The suggested

ordinance would be ignored by persons of the same mentality. Anything that burns will be used.�Richard and Mary Stavenhagen

221 I would certainly like to see Geneva legalize outdoor fireplaces for recreational purposes. It is silly that Geneva doesn't allow them when everyone around us does.

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225 We enjoy keeping our windows open all summer long. When our neighbors light a fire on their patios, we have to close all our windows. One neighbor burns a chimenea and the other uses a half drum on legs. The heavy smoke hangs in the air and is so uncomfortable to breath. There are weekends when I feel I live in a campground. Please do not allow or encourage any further burning. Thank you.

228 sitting around a fire has always been enjoyable229 Open fires should not be permitted in the Geneva City limits, such as a log fire(Boy Scout Fire), unless the fire is in an enclosed containment

vessel(fire pits, outdoor fire places and chimenea. Special fires should be allowed, if approved by the City on a one time event.

230 One of the highlights of our garden is our chimenea. We enjoy using it responsibly and feel the city should reconsider the current ordinance.

233 It is a very pleasant way to spend an pleasant, but cool evening. We have enjoyed this at homes of family and friends in neighboring towns. It

234 But regulate the size and smoke discharge of the pits

238 Landscape builders are adding fire pits and outdoor fire places to make a patio look charming even when not in use. They add a beautiful dimension to the garden, and are really only lit a couple of times a year, so I totally support these beautiful features even though I don't personally own/use one.

239 It could be changed back if too many people find that they are having medical problems. I do not think that it will be an issue.240 Seems like half the neighborhood has them already. Isn't it a waste of money to take complaints and send employees out to deal with them.

241 I see no problem with outdoor fireplaces.243 Lots of people use them now, and we can not open our windows on nice evenings. It is bad for people with breathing issues. I wish it was enforced

better.

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Batavia

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Batavia

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? Its allowed, you can burn anything outside that you would burn in an indoor fire place

2. What version and edition of fire prevention code has been adopted by your community?

Don’t know

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? Fire section 3.01

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? Dec 1st 2008

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? No noticeable effect. Police handle the calls mostly.

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? Sporadic in the Spring and Fall

7. What is/are the most frequent types of complaint(s) you typically receive related to opening burning in your jurisdiction?

One, Calls about the noxious odor. Two, People confused because the county has less restrictive rules.

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable? Yes

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add? No

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Glen Ellyn

7-7-3: OPEN BURNING: The open burning of leaves, brush, trimmings from trees or bushes, paper, garbage, refuse, waste or other combustible material on any property, public or private, from any source whatsoever, within the village is unlawful and is hereby prohibited, with the exception of:

(A) Fires set and supervised or authorized by a representative of the village, or a department thereof, for the disposal of diseased trees, public safety or recreation purposes, and

(B) Fires in outdoor fireplaces or burners when cooking food. (Ord. 1681, 8-10-1970)

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Glen Ellyn

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited?

Small Fires for cooking only.


I do not know

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? Yes

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? I don’t know (at least since 1970 by ordinance)

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? Mostly calls about controlled, ecological burns, not too many calls

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? About four or five a year

7. What is/are the most frequent types of complaint(s) you typically receive related to opening burning in your jurisdiction? People unaware of the controlled burn

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable? Yeah

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently

is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No


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Glenview

(d) Open burning. The open burning of leaves, branches, trunks and roots of trees, bushes and shrubs, rubbish, waste, garbage, paper, carbonaceous materials or any other combustible materials on any public or private property within the Village is unlawful and prohibited; provided, however, that this subsection shall not apply to the noncommercial cooking of food in outdoor fireplaces or grills.

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Glenview 1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning

prohibited?

Only for “cooking purposes”

2. What version and edition of fire prevention code has been adopted by your community? 2006 –International Fire Code

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? Just that it is not permitted, unless for cooking or in an outdoor fireplace made of brick and a chimney of appropriate height

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect?

Over 20 years.

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)?

Occasionally, we have to respond to a complaint and direct the resident extinguish the fire.

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy?

Seldom. Less than 10 a year.


My neighbor has a fire pit, and the smoke is affecting my asthma / smelling up my house

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable?

We have wrestled with this for years. It is about as manageable as it can be. We don’t allow open burning, however it is only enforced by complaint. If we allow burning, half of the community is complaining. If we just ban it completely, the other half feel we are violating their rights. This puts the enforcement back on the neighbors and takes us out of the middle of it.

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No. I don’t want to be the patio fire pit police.

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add?

Good luck. We go through this exercise nearly every year.

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Lake Zurich, IL A. Open Burning Prohibited: Except only as provided in subsections C and D of this section,

it shall be unlawful and a public nuisance for any person to cause, suffer, or allow open burning of any kind within the village, including, without limitation, the burning of "landscape waste" as that term is defined in subsection B of this section.

B. Definition Of Landscape Waste: The term "landscape waste" means, for purposes of this section, any and all accumulations of grass clippings, shrubbery and vine cuttings, leaves, trees, tree limbs, stumps, brush, and other materials accumulated from or as the result of the care of lawns, shrubbery, vines, trees, and other natural landscaping.

C. Exceptions To Prohibition Of Open Burning: The following instances of open burning shall be permitted, but only under the terms, limitations, and standards set forth in this subsection:

1. Recreational Fires: A recreational fire, if and only if conducted pursuant to a valid permit for open burning issued by the Lake Zurich fire prevention bureau.

2. Fireplaces, Cooking Devices, And Pits: A fire in an outdoor fireplace, open flame cooking device, or fire pit in accordance with the following standards:

a. Outdoor fireplaces and chimneys shall be a manufactured container or structure that holds fire at the base of a chimney or hearth, is constructed of stone, brick, steel or other noncombustible materials, and is provided with a screen or a spark arrestor above the fire.

b. An open flame cooking device shall be a manufactured cooking device used for the preparation of food.

c. Each outdoor fire pit shall be dug into the ground in a manner that will prevent the burn materials from falling out of the pit. The above grade portion of the pit shall be constructed of stone, masonry, metal, or other similar noncombustible materials. The bottom of the pit shall be below grade and shall be comprised of gravel, stone, or dirt. The total open area of the pit shall be no larger than thirty inches (30") in diameter or four (4) square feet. The pit shall be surrounded by a noncombustible barrier that is at least six inches (6") above the coals or ash within the pit. A ring of sand, dirt, or other noncombustible material approximately thirty six inches (36") wide shall be provided around the pit to provide separation for combustibles. No plant material shall be allowed within that thirty six inch (36") ring.

d. Burn materials shall be comprised only of seasoned firewood, charcoal, natural gas, or LPG gas. No burn materials shall extend outside of the fire pit, fireplace, or open flame cooking device. No landscape waste materials of any kind shall be burned.

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e. Every fire shall be located a safe distance from structures and overhangs such as houses, sheds, fences, trees, power lines, trellises, and balconies, decks, and rails. That distance shall be not less than fifteen (15) vertical feet and fifteen (15) horizontal feet for outdoor fireplaces and fire pits and three feet (3') for open flame cooking devices.

f. A fireplace or open flame cooking device placed on a combustible deck shall be placed on noncombustible material not less than one inch (1") thick and having an eighteen inch (18") perimeter around the fireplace or device. Further, that fireplace shall be located not less than fifteen (15) vertical feet and fifteen (15) horizontal feet away from all structures. Open flame cooking devices shall be located not less than three (3) vertical feet and three (3) horizontal feet away from all structures.

g. A means of fire extinguishment must be present and easily accessible during any open burning.

h. Every open burning shall be attended continuously by an adult not less than eighteen (18) years of age.

i. All open burning shall be prohibited when wind speed exceeds twenty (20) miles per hour.

j. All open burning, including the use of any fireplace, open flame cooking device, or fire pit, shall be prohibited at all times between the hours of twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight and seven o'clock (7:00) A.M. every day.

D. Exception For Governmental Agencies: This section shall not apply to the village or to any other governmental agency properly conducting a controlled fire or burn; provided, however, that the fire chief may impose any condition or limitation on any such controlled fire or burn within the village's corporate limits that the fire chief determines is necessary and appropriate to ensure the public health and safety.

E. Penalty: Any person, firm, corporation, or entity that violates any provision of this section shall be subject to an escalating fine schedule, as follows:

1. First offense: Fifty dollars ($50.00).

2. Second offense: One hundred dollars ($100.00).

3. Third offense and each subsequent offense: Five hundred dollars ($500.00). (Ord. 2006-11-460, 11-20-2006)

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Lake Zurich

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? Depends on the community, Lake Zurich allows fire pits or outdoor fire places only. Other communities allow leaf burning and some others limit the burning in different ways


Depends, on each fire truck we keep a book with all the different open burning ordinances

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community?

Lots, each community has their own

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? depends

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? The more regulated the less calls, however Lake Zurich still has a lot of calls

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? A lot, but our district covers a huge area so it’s expected


Burning when you’re not supposed to , burning construction materials, calls from residents who don’t understand that burning is allowed in certain cases.

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable? We need to educate people better, even strict code only helps a little, need more education.

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? Its better from our side, because it cuts down on fire problems and calls.


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Mundelein

15.04.010 ‐ Definitions.

In the interpretation of this chapter the following definitions shall apply:

"Agricultural waste" means any refuse, except garbage and dead animals, generated on a farm or ranch by crop and livestock production practices, including, but not limited to, such items as bags, cartons, dry bedding, structural materials and landscape wastes.

"Area of controlled burning" means the area specified on an IEPA and village permit subject to a controlled burning.

"Burn leader" means the person, not necessarily the applicant, responsible for oversight of the controlled burn.

"Controlled burning" means the burning, pursuant to an IEPA permit, of unharvested groundcover or vegetation for the restoration or active management of a prairie or savanna ecosystem.

"Domicile waste" means any refuse generated on single‐family domiciliary property as a result of domiciliary activities. The term includes, but is not limited to, landscape waste, but excludes garbage and trade waste.

"Fire chief" means the chief of the village of Mundelein fire department.

"Fire department" means the village of Mundelein fire department.

"Garbage" means refuse resulting from the handling, processing, preparation, cooling, and consumption of food or food products.

"IEPA" means the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

"Landscape waste" means any vegetation or plant refuse, except garbage. The term includes, but is not limited to, trees, tree trimmings, branches, stumps, brush, weeds, leaves, grass, shrubbery, yard trimmings and crop residues.

"Native prairie" means a vegetative landscape state that features either preserved or restored grasses and other ecosystems, as they existed prior to agricultural, residential or industrial development in this area.

"Open burning" means the combustion of any matter in such a way that the products of the combustion are emitted to the open air without originating in or passing through equipment for which a permit could be issued under Section 9(b) of the Environmental Protection Act of 1970.

"Refuse" means any discarded matter, or any matter which is to be reduced in volume, or otherwise changed in chemical or physical properties, in order to facilitate its discard, removal or disposal.

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"Trade waste" means any refuse resulting from the prosecution of any trade, business, industry, commercial venture, utility or service activity, and any governmental or institutional activity, whether or not for profit. The term includes landscape waste but excludes agricultural waste.

"Village" means the village of Mundelein.

(Ord. 06‐04‐32 § 1)

15.04.020 ‐ Prohibited acts.

(a)No person shall cause or allow within the boundaries of the village open burning of landscape waste as defined to include leaves, trees, tree trimmings, branches, stumps, brush, weeds, grass, shrubbery and yard trimmings.

(b)No person shall cause or allow the burning of any refuse in any chamber or apparatus.

(c)No person shall cause or allow within the boundary of the village any outside burning of any unharvested groundcover vegetation.

(Ord. 06‐04‐32 § 2)

15.04.030 ‐ Exemptions.

The following activities are made specifically exempt from the provisions of this chapter:

(1)The setting of fires to combat or limit existing fires, when reasonably necessary in the judgment of the fire chief;

(2)Training activities conducted by the fire department or another fire department working in conjunction with the fire department;

(3)Recreational fires, as defined in Section F301.2.1 of the village of Mundelein Fire Prevention Code, are permitted open burning, provided: (a) such recreational fires are wood fires burned in metal, or porcelain finished metal, portable outdoor fireplace structures manufactured by a qualified manufacturing firm; (b) the manufacturer's recommendations for proper placement and operation of the fireplace are followed; and (c) such fireplaces are not operated within the front yard setback;

(4)The controlled burning of ground vegetation for the purpose of establishing, restoring, sustaining or nurturing native prairies shall be permitted subject to the following:

(a)Village Permit Required. A permit for such controlled burning substantially similar to Exhibit A attached hereto must be obtained from the village of Mundelein,

(b)Conditions of Village Permit. No permit shall be issued unless the applicant provides to the village each of the following:

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(i)A valid and current open burning permit from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, along with all documents submitted to the IEPA to secure the permit,

(ii)A detailed site plan, specifying the exact area of the burn, all adjacent property boundaries, all structures and uses within fifty feet of the boundaries of the burn area, and the location of natural and planned fire breaks,

(iii)The name and qualifications of the burn leader. The burn leader must possess and provide proof of at least one of the following qualifications:

(A)Certification as such by a state agency,

(B)Be an acting full‐time firefighter with an Illinois municipality or fire protection district with classroom training in open burning management,

(C)Proof of certified training in prairie management that has included actual classroom and field training in controlled burning of ground vegetation,

(iv)Payment of a fee of one hundred fifty dollars to the village of Mundelein,

(v)Execution of an agreement prepared by the village attorney releasing and holding the village and the fire department and their respective officials and employees harmless from any damages or injuries arising out of the controlled burn, including, but not limited to, any halting of the burn pursuant to subsection (4)(d) of this section.

(c)Areas Where Controlled Burning is Permitted.

(i)The exemption shall apply only to: (a) areas which have been designated by either a federal, state, or county as being either an established native prairie area or being in the process of being restored, or (b) areas which are not part of a residential lot or development and which, in the opinion of the fire chief, would benefit from a controlled burn.

(ii)No portion of an area of controlled burning may be within fifty feet of any residential structure. This restriction shall not apply to a controlled burning conducted and supervised by the village on village property, or to a controlled burn supervised by the village and performed pursuant to an obligation undertaken as a condition of village approved covenants or special use or PUD zoning.

(d)Denial of Village Permit. A permit shall be denied if any of the conditions of subsection (4)(b) or (4)(c) of this section are not met. Further, either the village or the fire department may halt any controlled burning, either before or after commencement of such burn, if weather or other conditions are such that, in the sole discretion of either, the burning would constitute a hazard to other properties.

(e)Notification. Prior to the commencement of the controlled burning, the applicant must provide the following to the fire department or the person, if any, designated by the village to observe the controlled burning:

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(i)A sample notification and certified mail receipt showing proof of such notification to all property owners within two hundred feet of the boundaries of the burn area. The notification must indicate the date and a three‐hour time period for the expected commencement of the burn,

(ii)Proof of written notification to the village of Mundelein department of community development and the fire department of the exact time of expected commencement of the burn given not more than forty‐eight and not less than twenty‐four hours prior to such commencement.

(f)Post Burn Report. Within seventy‐two hours of the controlled burning, the applicant must file a written report with the fire department stating whether the burn took place, whether the purpose was accomplished, whether the burn exceeded the specified area, and whether any damage was done outside of the specific area

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Mundelein

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? Prohibited


Don’t know

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? No

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? Don’t know

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? Minimal

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? Maybe once a month


Someone is burning

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable? Yes, easy to enforce, once a month we go out and tell them to put it out

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? Already very restrictive

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add? We have very small lots, it’s a typical city

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South Elgin

§ 91.51 BURNING REFUSE, GARBAGE, LEAVES AND OTHER YARD WASTE PROHIBITED.

It shall be unlawful to cause, suffer, allow or permit burning of any garbage, refuse, leaves and other yard waste, or any other material, outside of any building at any time within the Village limits. Notwithstanding the above prohibition, open burning shall be allowed in the following limited circumstances:

(A) The setting of fires for public safety or ecological purposes provided that such burning shall not violate any Illinois or federal statute, rule or regulation, including those of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and United States Environmental Protection Agency.

(B) The burning of fuels for legitimate cooking purposes on a temporary or permanent fireplace grill or barbeque pit.

(C) The burning of firewood in outdoor fireplaces but only as accessory structures or uses in rear yards, as permitted under § 154.045 of the South Elgin Zoning Ordinance. Outdoor fireplaces allowed under this section shall not include open ground fires or pits, but shall be enclosed in brick, metal or other manufactured structure, which may be permanent or portable

('81 Code, § 16-1.14) (Ord. 1981-17-1, passed 12-7-81; Am. Ord. 1997-45, passed 10-20-97; Am. Ord. 2000-04, passed 1-3-00; Am. Ord. 2000-65, passed 12-18-00) Penalty, see § 10.99

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South Elgin

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? Only recreation fires or fire pits that have been manufactured in the city. The rural area follows can counties burning policy.


2009

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? County ordinance

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? As long as I’ve been here, for a very long time

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? Police handle the calls in the city; it rarely gets as far as the fire department. We used to have to go out all the time in the rural area

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? Not too bad any more, there was a period when neighbors would constantly call about each other


Most are about how people should not be burning as it is restricted.


9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No, more restrictive would make it even harder to enforce. We already have problems making sure proper burning is happening. I know now we probably do not catch everyone.

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add? We got a lot of calls for a while. Then people found out what the law was, and we were going to enforce it and now we don’t get as many calls.

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St Charles

• The unit should be at least 25 feet from any structure (house/garage/deck) and in an open lawn area.

• Use only clean, well-seasoned wood-not leaves, compost, brush, waste materials of any kind or holiday decorations/trees.

• The fire should not burn for more than 2 hours and must be constantly attended until extinguished. The fire must be properly extinguished prior to leaving unattended.

• Some type of fire extinguisher must be available for immediate use (ex. garden hose).

• Open burning is prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous. Be alert to wind speed/direction and be courteous to neighbors who may experience respiratory difficulties.

• The City Fire Code Official may order the extinguishment of any open burning that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.

26

St Charles

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited?

Prohibited, you need a permit for recreational fire.


I do not know


4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? A few years

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? We get a lot of calls. But it is not overwhelming

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? Quite a few, very frequently

7. What is/are the most frequent types of complaint(s) you typically receive related to opening burning in your jurisdiction? Neighbors complaining about smoke

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable? Absolutely

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently

is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? I do not think so

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add? Not really

27

Streamwood, IL

307.6 Outdoor Fireplace:

307.6.1 Definition: An outdoor fireplace is defined to mean any construction made of stone, brick, or metal used for the exclusive use of building a fire for the aesthetic enjoyment thereof but not used for cooking.

307.6.2 Location: Outdoor fireplaces of permanent construction cannot be attached to any structure, accessory building, building, or other medium that is combustible. All units, permanent or portable, must be freestanding with a minimum three feet clearance on all sides. Portable units must be placed on a non‐combustible surface such as concrete, patio blocks, or stone in such a way that the firebox is 18" above this surface.

307.6.3 Material To Be Burned: Outdoor fireplaces are limited to burning the following materials:

1. Cut wood (unpainted, unfinished).

2. Manufactured logs.

3. Manufactured non‐wood logs specifically made for use in fireplaces. No other material may be burned in outdoor fireplaces. Pressure treated wood, rubbish, leaves, garbage, and other waste are expressly prohibited.

307.6.4 Smoke Generation: The fire in an outdoor fireplace must be maintained in such a manner as to minimize the generation of smoke. Smoke that is a result of a smoldering or dying fire shall be eliminated. Generation of such smoke is considered a public nuisance punishable by fine.

307.6.5 Extinguishing/Safety: All fires in an outdoor fireplace are prohibited during the hours of twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight and six o'clock (6:00) A.M. Fires must be extinguished in such a manner that all air to the fire is cut off or wet down the burning material with water until it is cool to the touch. All outdoor fireplaces must have a screen or glass doors that prevents the distribution of hot embers or sparks outside of the firebox. Outdoor fireplaces shall be attended by an adult at all times. Precautions should be taken to

28

avoid touching hot surfaces, particularly when children are present. Manufacturer's installation, operating, and safety instructions shall be followed.

307.6.6 Violations of this ordinance are subject to a minimum fine as set forth in section 1‐4‐1 of the village code. A separate offense shall be deemed committed on each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.

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Streamwood

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? Only outdoor fire places


2006

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community? Yes, about outdoor fireplaces

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? Since 2008

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? Minimal

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? During summer and fall every couple of weeks


Usually someone thinking that the burning is illegal, when it is not. Sometimes we had problems with people burning garbage and that’s not allowed.


9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No


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Warrenville, IL

6-7-2: ALLOWABLE OPEN BURNING WITHOUT PERMIT:

A. Recreational fires and small landscape waste fires shall be allowed on all properties without prior notification to the city and without a city burn permit when conducted in strict conformance with the provisions of this chapter.

1. All recreational fires and small landscape waste fires shall comply with the following requirements and restrictions:

a. Location:

(1) If located in an approved container: All such fires shall be set back a minimum of fifteen feet (15') from all temporary or permanent buildings and/or wooden fences.

(2) If not located in an approved container: All such fires shall be set back a minimum of fifty feet (50') from all temporary or permanent buildings and/or wooden fences.

b. Supervision: Are conducted with the consent and under the constant and direct supervision of an owner, lessee, or occupant of the property where the recreational fire/small landscape waste fire is occurring who is at least sixteen (16) years of age or older.

c. Size: Are limited to an area that does not exceed two feet by two feet by two feet (2' x 2' x 2').

d. Fuel Source: The source of fuel is limited to seasoned dry firewood and/or dry branches and limbs collected from trees, shrubs, or bushes located on the property where the recreational fire or small landscape waste fire is occurring and is ignited with a small amount of clean paper. The fuel shall be chosen to minimize the generation and emission of air contaminants.

e. Days And Duration: Are permitted any day of the week at any time. (Ord. 2567, 3-1-2010)

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Warrenville

1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning prohibited? The fire district does not, the city does. Burning leaves and yard waste is allow so are recreational fires on the weekend


2007


4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect? 1990

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)? Not too bad, the city tells us if we need to come out on any calls. The city police department does most of the regulation, and they get called pretty frequently.

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy? For fire maybe twice a year. Lots of calls for the police

7. What is/are the most frequent types of complaint(s) you typically receive related to opening burning in your jurisdiction? People calling that don’t know people are allowed to burn. A lot of people outside of town don’t understand the ordinance.

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably

manageable/enforceable? Yes

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend? No, its nice for the public to be able to dispose of yard waste

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add? Bonfires have separate permits that have a four hour restriction

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Lisle‐Woodridge

Lisle

(B) Burning is permitted in an outdoor fireplace or cooking unit, but only if:

1. The fuel used is primarily charcoal, propane gas or dry, seasoned wood;

2. The fireplace is raised above ground level;

3. The fireplace is constructed of noncombustible brick, stone or metal materials, and is commercially designed for outdoor fires or cooking;

4. The fireplace, if moveable, is placed on a noncombustible surface during use;

5. The fireplace is directly attended at all times during use; and

6. The fire shall be entirely extinguished prior to leaving the fireplace unattended. (Ord. 97‐2847, 2‐17‐1997)

Woodridge

Open Burning: To cause or allow the open burning of refuse, landscape waste and/or recyclable material, conduct any salvage operation by open burning, or cause or allow the burning of any refuse, landscape waste and/or recyclable material in any chamber not specifically designed for the purpose and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency of the State of Illinois pursuant to regulations adopted by the Illinois Pollution Control Board; except, that the Illinois Pollution Control Board may adopt regulations permitting open burning of refuse, landscape waste and/or recyclable material in certain cases on a finding that no harm will result from such burning, or that any alternative method of disposing of such refuse, landscape waste and/or recyclable material would create a safety hazard too extreme as to justify the pollution that would result from such burning. (1976 Code §8‐13; amd. Ord. 90‐40, 6‐14‐90)

The emission of smoke or particulate matter in such manner or quantity as to endanger or be detrimental to the public health, safety, comfort or welfare is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and shall not be permitted in any nonresidential district. For the purpose of grading the density or equivalent opacity of smoke, the Ringelmann Chart described in the U.S. Bureau of Mines Information Circular 6888 shall be employed. The emission of smoke or particulate matter of a density equivalent opacity greater than No. 2 on the Ringelmann Chart is prohibited at all times except as otherwise provided hereinafter.

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Dust and other types of air pollution borne by the wind from such sources as storage areas, yards, roads and the like within lot boundaries shall be kept to a minimum by appropriate landscaping, paving, oiling, fencing, wetting or other acceptable means. The open burning of refuse, paint, oil, debris and any other combustible material is prohibited in all nonresidential districts. No operation shall result in the emission into the open air from any process or control equipment or in the measurement at any convenient measuring point in a breeching or stack of particulate matter in the gases that exceeds sixty one‐hundredths (0.60) pound per one thousand (1,000) pounds of gases during any one hour. Particulate matter loadings in pounds per acre described below shall be determined by selecting a continuous four (4) hour period which will result in the highest emission rate.

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Woodridge 1. Does your community have a policy that permits open burning of any kind or is open burning

prohibited?

We permit prescribed burns and bon fires.


We have three, because we work with two municipalities and DuPage County. We have 2003, 2006 and 2009 IBC with amendments.

3. Does it have any amendments regarding open burning within the community?

Requires a special permit.

4. How long has your current recreational fire policy been in effect?

As outlined in the code.

5. What kind of impact does this policy have on resources (particularly police and fire)?

Very little, although we do provide a stand‐by for the bon fires.

6. How frequently do you receive calls regarding issues relating to the policy?

Very rarely.


For non‐permitted burns.

8. Do you feel your open burning ordinance is adequate and reasonably manageable/enforceable?

Yes

9. Do you feel your open burning ordinance should be more restrictive than what it currently is? If so, what additional restriction would you recommend?

No

10. Is there any other information that you’d like to add?

No

35

Wheaton, IL

Sec. 54-113. Open burning.

The open burning of a grass or wooded plot, herbage, shrubbery, leaves, grass, brush, trimmings from trees or bushes, wood, paper, garbage, refuse, waste or other combustible material on any property, public or private, from any source whatsoever, within the city is unlawful and is hereby prohibited, with the following exceptions:

(1) Fires set and supervised or authorized by the fire chief of the city for public safety, training, silvicultural or wildlife management, or similar purposes and have been approved by the state or local governmental agency having jurisdiction.

(2) Bonfires which are being conducted under permit issued by the fire chief or his designate after being reviewed for the following:

a. Bonfire locations shall be approved by the fire chief or his designate.

b. The size and duration of a bonfire shall be approved by the fire chief or his designate based upon fire safety requirements including but not limited to atmospheric and weather conditions, proximity to structures, combustible materials, flammable liquids or vapors.

c. Bonfire materials shall be seasoned wood only.

d. All permits shall be requested by and issued to the property owner of the land upon which the bonfire is to be kindled.

(3) Recreational fires.

a. Fires for the express purpose to cook food for human consumption, such fires may be contained in charcoal burners, or the like.

b. Burning within commercially manufactured portable fireplaces or equal, but only if:

1. The portable fireplace is utilized in accordance with the manufacturers use guidelines or the guidelines listed below, whichever is more restrictive.

2. Location: A safe and reasonable clearance from any building, structure or vehicle. The portable fireplace shall not be placed on any combustible surface, shall be raised above the ground and shall be kept away from any flammable liquids or vapors.

3. Fuel: The fuel for the portable fireplace shall be dry seasoned wood or equal; no household or landscape waste shall be burned.

4. Attendance: The portable fireplace shall be attended at all times during use. The fire shall be entirely extinguished prior to leaving the portable fireplace unattended.

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c. Campfires shall be built directly on the ground requiring a six-foot minimum diameter area that contains no organic material. The campfire shall not contain more than eight cubic feet of fuel material. Campfires shall not be built closer than 30 feet to any building, structure or vehicle.

(4) When atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make any approved open burning hazardous, the fire chief or his designate shall order the open burning extinguished.

(Code 1968, § 14-12.3; Ord. No. F-0155, § 1, 7-21-97)

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Wheaton Dear Zach: In most cases, if someone wants to conduct an open burn they must obtain an IL EPA Burn Permit and then that permit is forwarded to the City Council for them to approve the event. For recreational fires, we do have a Scout area in our City, They must apply to the City and receive approval from the City Council to conduct their camp fire. Occasionally, one of the high schools will also ask for permission for a bon fire. Other than that, the only open fires permitted must be in an approved container for the purpose of cooking food.

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Elk Grove, IL Section 519.2 - Shall be amended to require all structures to have fire extinguishers installed pursuant to NFPA 10. (Ord. 2684, 4-13-1999) Allowable Burning - Add section 403.3:

Section 403.3 - Allowable Burning: Open burning shall be allowed without prior notification to the code official for: highway safety flares, smudge pots and similar occupational needs. Open burning without prior notification shall also be permitted for recreational fires which are hereby defined as outdoor fires utilized for the cooking of food for human consumption or outdoor fires in an outdoor fireplace pit, subject to the following conditions and regulations:

A. Cooking Of Food For Human Consumption 1. The fire shall only be allowed in a non‐combustible device specifically designed for cooking the food. The device shall include a tight fitting lid either attached to the device or readily accessible during all phases of the fire including starting, preheating, cooking and extinguishment. 2. The fuel used for food cooking fires is limited to charcoal specifically designed and sold for cooking food or natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas. 3. Fires are to be attended by an adult at all times during the food cooking process. 4. All fires shall be immediately extinguished at the completion of cooking. 5. Flames shall not be permitted to exceed the height of the cooking device measured when the cover is in place. 6. Smoke emitted from the fire shall not be permitted to extend beyond a fifteen (15') foot radius from the cooking device. B. Outdoor Fireplaces 1. All units are to be assembled following the manufacturer's requirements (lid and screen must be in place). 2. When in use, the unit shall be placed on a non‐combustible surface and positioned away from any structure or combustible object. 3. Only seasoned hard woods shall be used. Rubbish, refuse, yard waste and the like shall not be burned.

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4. Fires must be maintained at a reasonable size. Smoke emitted from the outdoor fireplace shall not infringe on any neighbor's health, safety, comfort, or quiet enjoyment of his residence. 5. The outdoor fireplace must be attended to by an adult at all times. 6. All fires shall be immediately extinguished when finished. 7. Outdoor fireplaces shall not be utilized during periods of high wind velocity. 8. A portable fire extinguisher, pail of water, or connected garden hose shall be kept near the unit while it is in use. 9. Any fires which are deemed a nuisance or a hazard by the Elk Grove Village fire or police department must be extinguished upon request or demand of either or said departments. (Ord. 2997, 6‐22‐2004)

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From: Holtaway, John [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Fri 3/4/2011 1:22 PM To: Brown, Chuck; Hill, Sam Cc: Burns, Kevin Subject: Allow Fire Pits

Dear Aldermen: Please support an ordinance or city code amendment to allow fire pits. Thank you. John and Jurate Holtaway 501 Eklund Avenue Geneva, IL 60134 (630) 208-1617

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mailto:%5Bmailto:[email protected]%5D

From: Mann, Julie [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2011 12:42 PM To: Brown, Chuck; Flanagan, Dorothy; Pawlak, Ray; Vogelsberg, Dawn; Dantino, Ralph; McKittrick, Mary Cc: Piper, Robert; Marks, Richard; Hill, Sam; Singer, Ron; Maladra, Craig Subject: opposed to opening burning 3/17/11 Members of the City Council, I live in the Sterling Manor neighborhood. Last summer my husband and I were forced to phone the fire department at least eight times to put out residential fire pits. On any given weekend at least three to four were roaring away, choking the air with smoke and making it impossible to open the windows of our home. I would be happy to point out at least 20 residential fire pits within walking distance of my house including a few used to burn trash. The gentleman who proposed a change to the current ban on opening burning said himself, he was brining the issue to you after someone called the fire department to complain about a fire he had set. He was also wrong on the current ordinances on open burning in neighboring communities. In a time of limited resources, it would be unwise to overburden the fire department because people want to burn things in their backyard for fun. Please call or email me your position on this issue. Julie Jaeger 772 Lewis Road 630-232-2715

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From: [email protected] Date: Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:25:41 -0500 (EST) To: <[email protected]>; <[email protected]> Subject: Fire pits Hello, I just read in the paper that the issue of open burning has been brought up as it relates to fire pits. Imagine my surprise to learn that in Geneva it is not legal...I wish I had known. And, please, do not make it legal as is hinted in the article I read. It is not fun to go out for the evening and leave your windows open to come home to a house that smells like burning wood. Or, to have guests and have to hop up and run around and close windows when the fire pit begins to scent the indoor air as well. And, how is the current law enforced? Natalie Kesman 630.845.8068

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mailto:[email protected]



From: Steve Persinger [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, March 07, 2011 6:48 PM To: McKittrick, Mary Subject: Firepits Hi Mary, I know that you are in the middle of budget and other financial things but I read that the alderman may take up a request to revise the open burning ordinance. I am really interested in getting this antiquated ordinance revised. All towns around Geneva and many others allow safe fire pits to be used for cooking and recreational use. I would like to be involved in this process of revision when you can start talking about it for possible revision. My son in law is a fireman in Naperville and is surprised that Geneva has such a strict ordinance. He has a fire pit at his home. If you don't mind, please inform me when you can. Thanks. Steve Persinger

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Hinsdale

4-2-8-1: PERMITTED OPEN FIRES:

The following open fires shall be permitted as follows:

A. The burning of combustible materials wholly within a building in a fireplace or other equipment or facility designed and constructed for such purpose; provided, that any refuse burning incinerator installed in any residence building shall comply with the rules and regulations of the Illinois pollution control board as the same may from time to time be in effect; and

B. The burning of charcoal briquettes, natural gas, propane, approved wood, or commercially prepared seasoned wood chips in conjunction with any of the foregoing for cooking purposes; and

C. The burning of "approved wood", as defined in this chapter, in an outdoor bonfire at a gathering conducted by religious, educational or other not for profit organization; provided, that a permit therefor is previously issued by the village and that such bonfire is attended by adult supervision and otherwise is in compliance with this code; and

D. The burning of "approved wood" in an "approved container" for recreational campfires, as these terms are defined in this chapter, or in an exterior masonry fireplace in a safe and controlled manner, provided compliance with the following:

1. Such fire shall be under the control of and attended at all times by a person eighteen (18) years of age or older; and

2. A portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 4-A or other approved extinguishing agent such as sand, dirt or water of sufficient quantity shall be available for immediate use; and

3. Such fire shall at all times be safely managed and shall not be permitted whenever atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fire hazardous; and

4. Such fire shall be located in an area separated from any building or structure, including wooden decks, or other combustible materials, by not less than fifteen feet (15'), except for fires located in exterior masonry fireplaces attached to occupied residences or buildings; and

5. Such fire shall not be permitted to create excessive flames, odors, flying cinders or smoke so that flames, odors, cinders or smoke travels across the property boundary from which the fire originates; and

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6. At no time shall such fire be utilized for waste disposal purposes. (Ord. O2006-68, 10-3-2006)

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Woodstock, IL 4.12.1: PURPOSE:

The purpose of these regulations is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the city of Woodstock by regulating the open burning of materials within the corporate limits of the city. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

4.12.2: DEFINITIONS: CEREMONIAL FIRE OR BONFIRE: An outdoor fire, larger than three feet by three feet by three feet (3' x 3' x 3'), which is used for entertainment purposes as part of a specifically scheduled public or private event and, except as provided for herein, excludes the burning of leaves, grass, or shrubbery clippings or cuttings. OPEN BURNING: The combustion of materials wherein products of the combustion are emitted into open air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. For the purpose of this definition, a chamber shall be regarded as enclosed when during the time combustion occurs, only apertures, ducts, stacks, flues, chimneys or similar features necessary to provide combustion air and permit the escape of exhaust gas are open. RECREATIONAL FIRE: A temporary outdoor fire, no larger than three feet by three feet by three feet (3' x 3' x 3'), for burning materials other than leaves, grass, shrubbery clippings or cuttings, or rubbish where the fuel being burned is fully contained in an outdoor fireplace or appliance designed for recreational burning purposes and used in the manner for which it was intended. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

4.12.3: PROHIBITIONS: The open burning of materials for waste disposal or other purposes, including, but not limited to, material such as yard waste, landscape debris, construction materials and debris, garbage, trash, or household waste, paper goods, cardboard, wood, food waste, animal waste, furniture, clothing, mattresses, appliances, and similar items and/or material is prohibited. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

4.12.4: CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS:

A. A ceremonial fire or bonfire must be supervised by an individual at least eighteen (18) years of age or older who shall be present at all times until the fire is extinguished. It is the responsibility of the individual supervising a ceremonial fire or bonfire and the property owner to verify that requirements set forth in these regulations are complied with.

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B. A garden hose or fire extinguisher or water source suitable for extinguishing the fire shall be available at the site of any ceremonial fire or bonfire, and such fire shall be extinguished when left unattended or abandoned.

C. A ceremonial fire or bonfire is required to have a permit issued by the McHenry County department of health and the Woodstock fire/rescue district must be notified no less than forty eight (48) hours prior to the start of such fire.

D. A recreational fire is permitted provided it is located at least fifteen feet (15') from any building or structure.

E. Fire and smoke generated by a ceremonial fire or bonfire or recreational fire shall not cause or result in any unsafe condition.

F. A ceremonial fire or bonfire or recreational fire shall not comprise or result in a nuisance, as defined in chapter 1, "Nuisances", of this title, for other property owners or residents. Pursuant to a signed complaint by the offended party, a citation may be issued for violation of the city's nuisance regulations. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

4.12.5: EXEMPTIONS:

A. The restrictions set forth herein on open burning shall not apply to prescribed burns associated with ecologic restoration or natural landscape management, or burning of landscape waste for purposes of habitat reclamation, or burning associated with firefighter training.

B. The restrictions set forth herein on open burning shall not apply to burning in domestic fireplaces, cooking grills, or external fireplaces, or to self-contained outdoor wood burning devices or fireplaces used in accordance with manufacturer's specifications, and when used in a manner so as not to create a nuisance as described in chapter 1, "Nuisances", of this title. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

4.12.6: ENFORCEMENT, VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES:

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A. These regulations shall be in addition to the current edition of the international fire code adopted by the city of Woodstock and the McHenry County open burning ordinance. Failure to comply with these regulations may be considered a violation of this code and of the McHenry County open burning ordinance.

B. Any enforcement officer of the city of Woodstock, Woodstock fire/rescue district, or McHenry County department of health is authorized to enforce these provisions. Complaints regarding violations of these regulations should be made to the Woodstock police department which will determine upon inspection whether a violation exists and if there is a need to involve the Woodstock fire/rescue district.

C. Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a petty offense and shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation is committed, and shall be subject to the fines and penalties set forth in section 1.4.1 of this code. If any person, firm, or corporation receiving a citation for violating any provision of this chapter fails to pay, settle or adjust the fine specified herein, then adjudication procedures may be initiated in accordance with title 1, chapter 7, article L of this code or with a court of competent jurisdiction, and such processes as necessary shall commence.

D. A written citation may be issued to the alleged violator by any of the methods specified herein. If the violator cannot be ascertained, then the citation may be sent to the record owner of the land on which the violation occurs. The citation shall describe the nature of the violation and the amount of the fine that must be paid.

E. If the person, firm or corporation cited for the violation has failed to pay, settle or adjust the fine, then such citation shall be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction and such process as necessary shall commence. (Ord. 09-O-62, 10-6-2009)

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The outdoor burning of unprocessed wood and brush, or any other materials, is prohibited except as specifically provided in Section 8.28.030 of this chapter.

(Ord. 02‐11‐12‐01 § 2 (part))

8.28.030 ‐ Permitted outdoor burning.

Outdoor burning shall be allowed only in the following circumstances:

A.Unprocessed wood and brush in a self‐contained outdoor burning device with a burn chamber of no greater than twenty seven (27) cubic feet;

B.Unprocessed wood, brush, charcoal or propane gas in a gas grill, charcoal grill or similar device for the purpose of cooking food.

(Ord. 03‐04‐28‐03; Ord. 02‐11‐12‐01 § 2 (part))

8.28.040 ‐ Further restrictions.

A.All permitted outdoor burning shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. At least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4‐A rating, two portable fire extinguishers with a minimum 2‐A rating each, or other approved on‐site fire extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel or garden hose, shall be available for immediate utilization.

B. If any complaint is received of any permitted outdoor burning due to the emission of smoke or odors, except for cooking purposes, and notification is made to a person engaged in the permitted outdoor burning by a village employee or official, a police officer on duty, or fire district employee or official on duty, the otherwise permitted outdoor burning shall cease and be immediately extinguished;

C.Planned ecological wetland and prairie burns approved and permitted by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the North Aurora And Countryside Fire Protection District upon notice in writing the village of the date, time and location of the burn; and

D.Planned fire training burns approved and permitted by the Illinois Environment Protection Agency and conducted or overseen by the North Aurora and Countryside Fire Protection District; and

E.Planned fire training burns approved and permitted by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and overseen by the Southern Kane County Training Association.

Burns that are allowed pursuant to subsections C, D and E of Section 8.28.030 of this chapter shall be allowed to continue as planned despite any complaints that might be made with respect to such burns.

(Ord. 03‐04‐28‐03; Ord. 02‐11‐12‐01 § 2 (part))

8.28.050 ‐ Fines and penalties.

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A.Any violation of the restrictions on outdoor burning may subject the offender to a fine of no less than fifty dollars ($50) and no greater than seven hundred and fifty dollars ($750) in lieu of or in addition to any other penalty that may be imposed pursuant to local ordinance or state law for the violation of an ordinance.

B.Warnings may be given for first time offenders, and the amount of the fine or the type of penalty may be proscribed in light of the seriousness of the offense, the number of past offenses, the degree of risk of or actual harm to individuals or damage to property, and other such factors as may indicate the carelessness, recklessness or willfulness of the offender.

C.Each day that a violation occurs or continues shall be considered a separate offense.

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North Aurora

8.28.010 ‐ Definitions.

"Brush" means tree trunks, logs, limbs, branches and twigs.

"Garbage" is defined as provided in Section 8.12.010 of this title.

"Landscape waste" means flowers, grass and grass clippings, leaves, pine needles, roots, shrubbery clippings, weeds and any other significant accumulation of small landscape waste materials.

"Open burning" means the burning of any materials out of doors other than in a self‐contained outdoor burning device with a burn chamber of no greater than twenty seven (27) cubic feet.

"Person" is defined as provided in Section 1.04.010 of this code.

"Processed materials" means any materials other than wood, brush or landscape waste.

"Processed wood" means natural wood to which is added glue and other adhesives, paint, polyurethane, stain, varnish or other such materials or which is treated with chemicals or other substances to change the character of the wood. Processed wood includes, but is not limited to furniture, particle board, plywood, Wolmanized lumber and similar wood materials.

"Refuse" is identified as provided in Section 8.12.010 of this title.

"Self‐contained outdoor burning device" means a freestanding or stationary apparatus that contains a burn chamber that prevents the products and omissions from combustion from immediately entering the ambient air by use of a chimney, flue, baffle, screen, grill, hood or other similar device.

"Unprocessed wood" means any wood, including brush and lumber, which is not processed.

"Village" is defined as provided in Section 1.04.010 of this code.

(Ord. 02‐11‐12‐01 § 2 (part))

8.28.020 ‐ Burning restrictions.

A.Open burning, including bonfires, is strictly prohibited.

B.The outdoor burning of any of the following materials is prohibited:

1.Garbage or refuse;

2.Processed materials;

3.Processed wood;

4.Landscape waste.

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North Aurora

Schaumburg, IL § 91.03 REGULATIONS OF PARTICULAR ACTIVITIES.

(A) Fires, Smoke And Particulate Matter:

(1) Open Fires: The open burning of any paper, garbage, refuse, waste, leaves, clippings, wood, or other combustible or offensive material is prohibited, with the exception of the following:

(a) Fires set by a public official in the performance of an official duty.

1. Permit Required: A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official prior to kindling a fire for:

A. Recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices,

B. Prevention or control of disease or pests, or

C. A bonfire or fire ring.

(b) Fires used for private or public recreational purposes.

1. Recreational Fires: Recreational fires may be burned in a chimenea, outdoor fireplace, or fire pit that is both prefabricated and portable, or village approved and permitted, and permanently built as defined in this chapter. All parts, including, but limited to, screen, lid, and grate shall be used according to manufacturer's direction.

(c) Fires in outdoor fireplaces or barbecue grills designed for cooking food.

(2) Nuisances Created: Provided, however, that no such fire referred to in subsections (A)(1)(b) and (A)(1)(c) of this section shall be used as an incinerator, or be permitted to become a nuisance or a source of annoyance or discomfort to any person by reason of the emission of smoke, fumes, fly ash, dust or soot as elsewhere prohibited by this subchapter. Extinguishment of the recreational fire is required when the creation of a public nuisance occurs.

(3) Village Permit: A village permit shall be required for permanently installed barbecue grills, chimeneas, fire pits, and outdoor fireplaces that are stationary and permanently built in an outdoor location.

(4) Location: Recreational fires shall be located on a noncombustible, hard, level surface when in use, such as concrete, paver bricks, or asphalt.

(5) Distances From Structures And Combustibles: Structures and combustibles include, but are not limited to, homes, garages, sheds, playhouses, wood decks, wood fences, trees,

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bushes, and other items that are combustible. The following distances from structures and combustibles shall be maintained for all open burning:

(a) A minimum clearance of fifty feet (50') from all structures and combustibles shall be maintained for large open fires, such as bonfires, where the total fuel area is thirty six inches (36") or more in diameter and twenty four inches (24") or more in height.

(b) A minimum clearance of twenty five feet (25') from all structures and combustibles shall be maintained for fire pits or other than prefabricated portable units where the total fuel area is thirty six inches (36") or less in diameter and twenty four inches (24") or less in height.

(c) A minimum clearance of fifteen feet (15') from all structures and combustibles shall be maintained for prefabricated portable fire pits, chimeneas or similar, where the total fuel area is thirty inches (30") or less in diameter and twelve inches (12") or less in height.

(6) Approved Fuel: Wood burning recreational fires shall be limited to burning untreated, unpainted, clean, dry wood; manufactured fire logs. Propane and other similar gases may also be burned.

(7) Supervision: Open burning, bonfire or recreational fire shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished.

(8) Extinguishment: On site fire extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose, or fire extinguisher shall be available when open burning, bonfire or recreational fire device is in use.

(1) Escape or emission from any source whatsoever of fumes or odors that are detrimental or injurious to the property, health, safety, comfort or welfare of inhabitants of the community is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and is prohibited.

(E) Motor Vehicles: Operation of internal combustion engines which emit visible fumes having an opacity in excess of Ringelmann no. 2 is prohibited.

(F) Radioactive Material: Radioactive materials shall not be permitted to escape into the atmosphere in excess of the limits set by the rules and regulations of the U.S. atomic emergency commission and the state of Illinois in effect from time to time concerning such material. (Ord. 1858, passed 6-10-1980; Am. Ord. 07-110, passed 7-24-2007; Am. Ord. 08-053, passed 4-8-2008)

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West Chicago

Sec. 11‐101. ‐ Open burning.

(a)Definitions.

(1)Open burning: The combustion of any refuse or yard/landscape waste outside of a building on the ground or in a container.

(2)Yard waste: All accumulations of grass or shrubbery cuttings, leaves, and other materials accumulated as the result of the care of lawns, shrubbery, vines and trees.

(3)Refuse: Any discarded combustible or noncombustible material including trash, garbage, sludge, and landscaped waste.

(4)Recreational fires: Fires such as bonfires, campfires, and similar types of open burning of any kind. It shall not include cooking on barbecue grills.

(5)Controlled burning: Approved outdoor fireplaces and/or fire pits, whether pre‐manufactured or built‐in‐place, and similar types of burning of any kind, but not cooking on barbecue grills.

(b)Open or uncontrolled burning prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or allow any open or uncontrolled burning at any site, at any time within the city.

(c)Controlled burning permitted. Controlled burning is permitted within the city when in compliance with the following guidelines:

(1)The unit/area shall be a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from any structure (house/garage/shed/etc.) and placed on a noncombustible surface, such as a concrete or brick patio, or, in an open lawn area.

(2)Only untreated wood shall be burned. Leaves, compost, brush, waste materials of any kind, holiday decorations and/or Christmas trees shall be prohibited.

(3)A fire‐extinguishing medium, (garden hose, fire extinguisher, etc.) must be located within visible proximity of the fire and available for immediate emergency use.

(4)The fire shall be constantly attended by a competent person until completely extinguished.

(5)The fire shall not burn for more than six (6) hours.

(6)Burning is prohibited when atmospheric conditions, such as high winds, or other local circumstances make such fires hazardous.

(7)The city or fire district may order the extinguishment of any burning that creates a nuisance by the emission of smoke or noxious gases upon a neighboring property, or contributes to a hazardous condition to health or life safety.

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(8)Prior to the first fire of any calendar year, the fire district may require an inspection to confirm compliance with the above guidelines.

(d)Burning in unapproved chambers prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or allow the burning of any refuse including landscape waste in any chamber not specifically designed for the purpose and approved by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to regulations adopted by the Illinois Pollution Control Board or specified by this section.

(e)Exceptions; permits. Resource management burning such as the annual West Chicago Prairie burn‐off and recreational fires are not covered by these regulations. The city administrator shall issue permits for these types of open burning. The city administrator shall consult the West Chicago Fire Protection District before issuing the permit.

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Agenda Item: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software

Presenter & Title: Stephanie K. Dawkins, Assistant City Administrator



Estimated Cost: ~$400,000 Budgeted? X YES NO

If NO, please explain how the item will be funded: Executive Summary: Discussion regarding the procurement of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software system. Attachments: (please list)

Memorandum

Recommendation / Suggested Action: (briefly explain)

No recommendation, discussion item only.

City of Geneva

Administrative Services Department Memorandum

To: Mayor Kevin R. Burns City Council Members

From: Stephanie K. Dawkins, Assistant City Administrator/Dir. of Admin. Services Date: August 29, 2011 Re: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software CC: Mary McKittrick, City Administrator

Mayor Burns and Members of the City Council: As part of the Fiscal Year 2011-2012 budget process, the City Council approved the expenditure for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software in an amount not to exceed $400,000. An ERP system is an integrated computer-based application used to manage internal and external resources, including tangible assets, financial resources, materials, and human resources. This was included in the capital projects for the General Capital Projects Fund, the Electric Fund, and the Water/Wastewater Fund. Although this is not a “policy” discussion (should be no different than the purchase of the fire truck which was approved by the City Council last month); we have been requested by some members of the City Council to have further discussions on this item prior to bringing Council a staff recommendation. For the current and previous fiscal years, the Administrative Services Department goals have included researching and implementing new ERP software. This relates to the City’s Strategic Plan Document Vision 5, Goal 2, Objective 2 – Maintain cost effective and efficient delivery of City services and Vision 4, Goal 4 – Commit to leading edge technology. From an Administrative Services perspective, we are utilizing an accounting, payroll, and utility billing system that has been in place over 14 years. While the system can provide for basic accounting capabilities, it lacks many facets which the City needs in order to implement best practices, and service its employees and residents in a more efficient manner. The existing ERP software is very limited in addressing the current financial and business needs of a decentralized environment where departments utilize best practices to manage their own information. As such, the Assistant City Administrator assembled an ad hoc committee for the purpose of researching the market for a modern ERP system that meets the needs of the City today and in the future.

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The ad hoc committee was comprised of multiple department employees who use the current software on a regular basis and wanted to participate in the process. A total of 34 staff members, representatives from all City departments, agreed to be a part of the ad hoc committee. Background For the better part of 2011, staff has been researching and exploring the purchase of a new ERP system for the City. The ERP system is the software system that is used to manage many of the internal processes (and related information) of City government, including payroll, budgeting, accounting, utility billing, licensing, permitting, human resources, etc. The current suite of application software consists of custom modules provided by Municipal Software, Inc. (MSI). According to City records, the license agreement with MSI was approved by the City Council in June 1997 at a cost of $58,614. The software has received minimal updates throughout the years. MSI telephone support and software maintenance is approximately $15,000 annually. The system no longer meets the needs of the various departments it is intended to support. The City has some unique needs due to the electric utility. As such, the current system was customized to fit those needs. Anytime a change needs to be made it is at an additional cost. It lacks many of the reporting capabilities that should be standard. Overall the current system requires a lot of guesswork and manual manipulation to get the desired output. This leaves open the possibility of error and takes an inordinate amount of staff time, wasting City resources. It is understood that the economic times have placed tremendous pressure on local government and that the service delivery model of the future will include more automation and less personnel to be more efficient. Staff identified many areas where MSI fails to fully or partially support the business process. Specific deficiencies that routinely occur: Reporting Analysis Regular reporting and analysis are necessary to improve the City’s business processes, provide critical information to the Council for decision-making purposes and generate reports for regulatory compliance. For example, the system does not provide information necessary for the Electric Excise tax reporting. Additionally, one report can be run one month and then run again the next month and the information is different. Other reports that would normally be standard are unavailable in the current system. A good example is the workers’ compensation codes. The City pays a reinsurance workers’ compensation premium based upon payroll using standard codes for various job classifications. Currently this report is calculated manually as the system does not have a way of tracking these codes. Overall the reporting capabilities of MSI are limited or non-existent. If a report can be created through Relativity (a custom report as opposed to canned) it takes an inordinate amount of time to download the information. While the system is downloading one cannot work in a different system or program. Essentially, work is at a standstill until the system reports loads. Overall, the current system tends to create more work rather than streamlining the work. Technology should help improve processes not hinder.

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Utility Billing A frequent point of contact for residents with the City is the utility billing process. Customers want to be able to see their financial accounts, payments, bills, history of usage and the breakdown of charges on-line. Electronic billing is also requested by a large percentage of customers. Customers consistently ask to please stop sending them a bill through the mail and wasting the included envelope, postage, etc. They would just like it sent to them electronically. With the current system we are unable to fulfill this request. Citizens can pay their bill on-line by having the money automatically deducted from their checking account or by making a one-time payment. Unfortunately, one cannot view their actual bill on line nor can we send the bills electronically. Additionally, the current bills that are generated from MSI do not include a past payment line or information relating to previous charges. Customers have also requested budget billing. Although the City Code provides for budget billing this program is unavailable with the current software. The current system does not have the capability to re-bill a customer. Therefore, if a customer needs a corrected bill, staff has to manually re-do the bill in excel. Not only is this time consuming, but then the corrected bill is not recorded in the system for reporting purposes. The current final bill process is a juggling act that affects the resident that is moving out and the resident that is moving in. Utility Billing should be able to provide a final bill “on demand,” however due to constraints in the current system this is not possible. We have made some improvements in the process, but we are hindered by the manner in which MSI generates final bills. Finance The current system is very simplistic and cannot handle some of the more complicated aspects of governmental accounting. For example, the Cash Register module allows for only one bank deposit account. We have funds that get deposited into our Main bank account, but also our Illinois Funds, and State Bank of Geneva account. To place the money into the correct account, a journal entry must be prepared. Journal entries must also be prepared to make corrections in Payroll and Utility Billing. Many fiscal year end processing transactions have to be done manually, which can be done automatically by all modern ERP systems. General The City uses various modules of the MSI software. These modules do not all interface with one another. Therefore, different departments may be collecting and tracking duplicate information. Request for Proposals In order to be prepared for the budget process, staff prepared a request for proposals (RFP) that was distributed to various vendors of ERP systems. Responses for the RFP were due by February 18, 2011. Five proposals were received (the City’s current software provider did not

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submit a proposal); Civic Systems, Cogsdale, New World Systems, Springbrook, and Tyler Technologies. Following approval of funding in the budget process, staff commenced with on-site vendor demonstrations with the three vendors who appeared to best meet the needs of the City; New World Systems, Springbrook, and Tyler Technologies. Each of the vendors came to the City for one day in June and presented their products to the ad hoc committee. It is important to note that the Police Department purchased and implemented software from New World for their records management in October 2007 at a cost of $46,176.14. This was through an interlocal agreement with the Cities of Batavia and St. Charles. To date, they have been satisfied with its functionality and maintenance of the program. Next Steps Staff is at the juncture to determine the best provider of an ERP for the City and to commence negotiating with that provider. Prior to investing more time and energy in research, reference checking, further system testing, staff is requesting affirmation of the direction taken since approval of funding in the budget process.

special committee of the whole 7:00 p.m. 109 james …

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