Fire Marshal & Open Burn Offices

Mr. Michael Lester serves as Fire Marshal.  Mike is also our Open Burn Official. Stephen Postemsky is our Deputy Fire Marshal for the Town of Columbia. 

As Fire Marshal, Mike's duties are to inspect various buildings (food, liquor, group homes, schools, municipal buildings, etc...) in accordance with State of Connecticut Law, and to investigate fires.  The Fire Marshal also performs a great public service by reminding people about smoke detector safety.  

As Open Burn Official, Mr. Lester examines proposed outdoor burnings and certifies those that meet State and Local safety standards. Permission is not needed for a recreational cookout or camp fire.  Once contacted, the Open Burn Official will inspect what is proposed to be burned. Approval results in the issuance of a Burn Permit. Please contact (860) 228-0440 if you wish to obtain a burn permit.