Lebanon City Council approved an ordinance amending the International Fire Code adopted by the city. The amendment allows a second exception to section 307.1.1 of the code that prohibits public burning.
The amendment allows the burning of a flag or similar item at a public demonstration. Mayor Sherry Capello told the council this change was being made to conform with the First Amendment.
The section, as written, prohibits the burning of garbage, rubbish, rags, bones, leaves, paper and other trash in cans, barrels, outdoor fireplaces, drums or metal containers, incinerators or in the open and further states that open burning of any product within the City is prohibited. The only listed exception is an approved bonfire for school activity.