TOMS RIVER, N.J. — The Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention released safety guidelines Thursday morning ahead of Lag B’Omer, a Jewish holiday traditionally marked with bonfires, which begins Thursday evening and ends Friday night.
The department reminded residents that all Lag B’Omer fires must be permitted and inspected. Permits must be filed through the SDL Portal under a Type I – Bonfires application. Incomplete forms or unpaid permit fees will result in cancellation. Each permit carries a $54 fee.
Bonfires must not exceed 5 feet in height, width, or depth, and are limited to three hours in duration. They must be placed at least 50 feet away from any building or structure and ignited using only a small amount of paper and seasoned hardwood. Flammable liquids are strictly prohibited.
“Approved means of extinguishment must be in place prior to ignition,” the Bureau stated, recommending a garden hose as a primary method. The responsible party must remain at the site during the event and for at least 30 minutes afterward, ensuring the fire is fully extinguished.
Permits, supervision, and location rules stressed
Attendees must stay at a safe distance from the fire, and children are to be closely supervised at all times. Only adults aged 18 or older are allowed to manage the fire. Fires should be set in open spaces, away from trees, brush, and other flammable materials.
Ashes should never be disposed of in household trash, and fire inspectors must be followed without exception. In the event of an emergency, residents are advised to immediately call 911.
Chief Inspector Matthew Janora emphasized that bonfire safety requires active supervision and strict adherence to all fire code regulations.