CHAPTER 6 – FIRE PREVENTION & FIRE PROTECTION

Chapter 6: Fire Prevention & Protection (Ebensburg, PA)

This ordinance outlines regulations for outdoor burning, smoking in public areas, the operations of the local fire department, and the handling of fire insurance proceeds.

Part 1: Outdoor Burning Regulations

• General Rules: Open burning is generally forbidden. Permissible fires (bonfires, recreational fires) must be constantly attended by an adult and kept at least 10 feet from property lines or sidewalks.
• Bonfires: Must be at least 50 feet from structures and require a permit from the Borough of Ebensburg. Only firewood can be burned.
• Recreational Fires: Must be at least 25 feet from structures, confined to a non-combustible ring no larger than 3 feet in diameter, and cannot be lit between midnight and noon. Only firewood or charcoal is allowed.
• Portable Fireplaces & Grills: Must follow manufacturer instructions and be kept at least 15 feet from structures. Barbeque grills are prohibited on balconies.
• Temporary Bans: The Borough Manager can ban all outdoor burning due to air quality, weather, or other public interest concerns.
• Penalties: Violations are enforced by the Ebensburg Borough Police Department and can result in a fine of up to $600 plus costs, or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

Part 2: Smoking Regulations

• Prohibited Areas: Smoking is banned in the Central Cambria Middle School building and any other public place designated as a no-smoking area.
• Signage: Owners of public buildings must post signs reading "SMOKING AND THE USE OF TOBACCO PROHIBITED BY LAW" that are at least 144 square inches in area.
• Penalties: Violations can result in a fine of up to $600 plus costs, or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

Part 3: Fire Department

• Dauntless Fire Company: The members of the Dauntless Fire Company are authorized to perform various duties, including responding to alarms, participating in drills and contests, and engaging in fundraising.
• Reimbursement: The Borough authorizes the Dauntless Volunteer Fire Company to collect fees from individuals who use their services to cover the time and effort spent.
• Firemen's Relief Association: The "Relief Fund Association of the Dauntless Fire Company" is officially recognized. It provides benefits to members and their families in case of death, sickness, or disability incurred on duty.
• Funding: The Borough annually appropriates funds from taxes paid by foreign fire insurance companies to the recognized relief association.

Part 4: Fire Insurance Proceeds

• Municipal Claims: If a fire loss claim exceeds $7,500, the insurance company must first pay any outstanding municipal taxes or expenses related to the property (e. g. , removal of a dangerous structure).
• Payment Process: The Borough Treasurer will issue a certificate stating the amount owed. The insurer must transfer these funds to the Borough before paying the remainder to the insured.
• Liability: Insurance companies are not liable for amounts beyond their policy limits or for creating obligations to pay delinquent property taxes.