Towamensing's board of supervisors is exploring a township-based penalty for burn ban violations.

The draft of the ordinance, which was introduced at Thursday's regular board meeting, would allow the township to fine or imprison people who violate burn bans."It is a violation of this ordinance to cause, set, ignite, feed, allow or maintain an open fire within the geographical boundaries of Towamensing Township while a fire burning ban is in effect," the document reads.The current draft notes that any fine would not exceed $1,000, while failure to pay would result in an imprisonment term of 30 days or less."Our major concern was several months ago when those horrific brush fires were going on. … It was really concerning. Coming down Strohls Valley, I thought that a neighbor nearby lit a brush fire. It was really horrific, and we're just trying to prevent some terrible tragedy like that," Chairwoman Penny L. Kleintop said.Fire Chief Jeremy Haydt and his assistant chiefs would be responsible for enforcing the ordinance by confirming that a violation took place, and then proceeding to file a nontraffic citation with a judge.The draft has been put on hold to clarify several issues, especially incidents involving fireworks.