LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — Open flames in Lower Merion Township will be banned for 30 days starting Friday.

Township officials Thursday said a 30-day burn ban will go into effect Friday.

The ban will last until April 14.

During the ban, open fires, including recreational fire pits and fireworks, within Lower Merion Township are prohibited.

Officials enacted the ban due to the extended period of dry conditions affecting Lower Merion Township and the potential for uncontrollable fire spread and wildfires.

All Lower Merion Township issued recreational fire permits will be revoked during the burn ban.

Lower Merion Fire Chief James McCoy Told Patch first-time violators will be issued a warning notification and receive education on the potential dangers of open fires during a burn ban. Any subsequent violations can come with a fine, with the amount being decided on by the local court.

“Our big thing is limiting any accidental opportunities to cause fires,” he said

McCoy urged members of the public to be conscientious about their potential impact on starting brush fires, such as tossing lit cigarette butts or allowing embers from grilling to spread.

McCoy said this spring is particularly ripe for potential brush fires due to the dry winter and the dry fall and summer in 2024.

Battling a brush fire can prove difficult for first responders depending on the location.

In November 2024, Lower Merion firefighters battled brush fires along the Cynwyd Heritage trail. These fires broke out during a 30-day burn ban enacted by the township.

McCoy said the township is being proactive with this ban and that officials are hoping to get substantial rainfall that will fully wet the ground and vegetation.

“Spring if the beginning of the outdoor season,” he said. “We fully understand that people want to be outside and enjoy fire pits. But we’re trying to prevent any big fires.”

Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 610-645-6190 with questions about the burn ban.