Without naming names, I've known neighbors who will keep their fires burning into the early morning hours. I wouldn't be opposed to a midnight cut-off for residential neighborhoods. Thoughts?

Unfortunately, we live in an imperfect world. I have witnessed neighbors have huge parties with friends who throw gasoline on an already large bonfire. Residential areas arent the ideal setting for this sort of activity. It hurts to have to admit this because there are so many families who love to make "smoores" with their kids. Its because of the aforementioned behavior that I have to agree with limiting the use of bonfire pits. I really wish that it wasnt so!

This is a very good question should fires be allowed?? I live in a sub and have a fire pit that i use about 3-4 times a year so I am in favor of keeping them. Now comes the problem I have neighbors that burn 4-5 times a week!! Some of them burn the most disgusting wood it stinks up your house so bad that it just ruins the fresh summertime air that I should be enjoying. If people would just use common sense we would need to do nothing. Maybe thats all it would take is some common sense reminders to the public!

FYI - Macomb Township is currently under an outdoor burning ban. This ban will not be lifted until we receive significant rainfall.

People that burn wood in their yards are reckless. I have seen them
A) burn on their wood deck (brilliant!)
B) go to bed and leave the fire smoldering
C) burn green wood and pressure-treated wood
D) use gas and kerosene to "enhance" their fire
E) completely smoke up my yard with poisonous woodsmoke

Why should anyone in a residential area even think that they could force their billowing smoke onto their neightbors? That is clearly a 'trespass onto another property" and should be banned completely.
The Canadian Cancer Society has listed wood smoke as a cancer-causing agent. Maybe these backyard burners should do some research as to what exactly they are doing to their neighbors and themselves.

People need to learn about the insidious toxicity of wood smoke. Here is the most comprehensive collection of research on wood smoke:

http://burningissues.org/forum/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=15

I agree with others that don't want this filthy toxic smoke coming in from their neighbors place. How inconsiderate of these burners.
Try blowing a little cigarette smoke in somebody else's face and see what happens.
EVERY council should have a no outdoor burning ordinance for wood.
The fire departments are to blame with this as well. They give people a permit without any consideration as to smoke trespass. The fire dept. are only interested in preventing the escape of fire, or damage to property.
I say call the cops, they are there to administer the council, environmental, and health laws for you, and I have found them to be most courteous and helpful:-)

Thanks for adding to this article folks, especially the additional information on the dangers of treated wood. I appreciate it!