The Lakewood Fire District No. 1 is reminding residents planning Lag Ba’Omer bonfires to follow strict safety guidelines and obtain the required permits ahead of the holiday.
Officials said anyone intending to light a bonfire must secure a permit through the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office. Applications must be completed and submitted at least 10 business days in advance, along with a $54 fee. Permits can be obtained online or submitted by email or mail, though handwritten applications and cash payments will not be accepted.
For added convenience, permit applications will also be accepted in person at Lakewood Fire Headquarters, 733 Cedar Bridge Avenue, from April 27 through May 1, between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Fire officials stressed that bonfires may not be lit without prior inspection and approval by a Fire Marshal. A responsible adult must be present at all times, and a secondary contact must be listed on the application. Fires must be built using clean wood only, with no flammable liquids permitted, and a water source must be readily available.
Additional regulations include maintaining a safety perimeter of at least 15 feet around the fire, keeping bonfires at least 50 feet away from structures or vehicles, and limiting fire size to no more than five feet by five feet. Fires should not be built under low-hanging branches, near brush, or close to overhead wires.
Officials also emphasized general safety precautions, including constant adult supervision, keeping children away from open flames, and having first aid supplies on hand. In the event of an emergency, residents are urged to call 911 or Hatzolah.
The department noted that failure to follow regulations may result in permits being denied or revoked, and unauthorized fires may be extinguished and subject to penalties.
Officials encouraged residents to stay informed on weather conditions and to follow all Fire Marshal instructions to ensure a safe Lag Ba’Omer.