The Elizabethton City Council passed a new ordinance during Thursday’s council meeting on second reading, completely prohibiting open burnings within city limits.

Fire Marshal Andy Hardin said the ban, which will go into effect Thursday, Nov. 28, includes anything other than a recreational fire in backyards or approved campground sights.

“A lot of city homes are close in proximity,” Hardin said. “It makes it a whole lot safer.”

Previously, those wishing to burn brush had to obtain a permit to do so. Now, the only recipients of permits are commercial venues who require burning to clear out their waste.

Hardin said the recent season of cold rain and snow does not drastically reduce the chance of accidental fires.

“Just because it is a little wet, it can still be an issue,” he said. “You can still do fire pits.”

He said this ban on burnings will not be for a short period of time; this is meant to be long-term city law.