FAQs

What is a Knox Box?: A Knox Box is a way for firefighters to gain entry to buildings without causing damage. During a fire alarm when no obvious signs of fire are apparent, firefighters can gain access to buildings to check whether an alarm is false or there is a problem. The advantage is there is no unnecessary damage caused by firefighters during a false alarm. You may contact Fire Marshal John DeCaro at 734.822.4964 with any questions.

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Public Safety

1. Who would I call for information on Neighborhood Watch?: Information on Neighborhood Watch can be obtained by contacting Public Safety at 734.822.4911.

2. How often should I replace my smoke alarms?: Smoke alarms should be tested every month, and batteries should be replaced at least once a year or as needed. All alarms that are older than 10 years old should be replaced.

3. Where can I get a fire extinguisher?: In rental units, the landlord supplies fire extinguishers as set forth in Section PM-701.2 of the Pittsfield Charter Township Code of Ordinances. Homeowners can purchase fire extinguishers at local area fire protection retailers. Most department and home improvement stores also carry them.

4. Where can disabled residents get information on how to be better prepared for emergencies?: Information on preparing for emergencies (including a checklist for people with mobility problems) is available through the American Red Cross Ann Arbor Donor Center. They are located at 4624 Packard Road, Ann Arbor, MI and can be reached by phone at 734.971.5300.

5. Can I burn leaves on my own property?: Pittsfield Charter Township Ordinance No. 10-71 bans outdoor open burning except in areas zoned AG (agricultural district). In these areas, open burning is allowable with notification to the Fire Department. Other types of open burning such as for recreational purposes do not require prior notification, although the fire marshal reserves the right to prohibit any open burning during a fire alert, warning, or when atmospheric or local conditions make such burning hazardous.

6. Does Pittsfield Charter Township have a Humane Society or Animal Control Officer?: No. Animal complaints should be directed to Metro Dispatch at 734-994-2911.

7. Will I get charged if my Fire Alarm goes off but there is no fire?: You may find the answer to this question in the False Alarm Ordinance #233

8. How do I get a copy of a fire report?: You may contact our Records Bureau at 734.822.4930.

9. What is a Knox Box?: A Knox Box is a way for firefighters to gain entry to buildings without causing damage. During a fire alarm when no obvious signs of fire are apparent, firefighters can gain access to buildings to check whether an alarm is false or there is a problem. The advantage is there is no unnecessary damage caused by firefighters during a false alarm. You may contact Fire Marshal John DeCaro at 734.822.4964 with any questions.

10. What kind of work schedule do firefighters work?: Our Fire Chief and Fire Marshal work a 40 hour week while our other full-time staff work 24 hour shifts. The 24 hour staff works 3 out of 5 days then are off for 4 days. An example would be a firefighter would work – Monday, Wednesday and Friday and then be off until the following Wednesday

11. What is the Noise Ordinance?: It shall be unlawful for any person to create, assist in creating, permit, continue, or permit the continuance of any unreasonably loud, disturbing, unusual or unnecessary noise that either annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others within the limits of the township. Read the full Noise Ordinance for more information.

12. Solicitors come to my home to sell products. Are they allowed to do that?: A license is required to solicit in Pittsfield Charter Township. All approvals available for review. Soliciting is not allowed from dusk to 9am. Read our Transient Merchant (Solicitors / Vendors) Ordinance for more information.

13. Will I be charged for a false alarm at my property?: The False Alarm ordinance was established as a service charge to defray costs of police and fire responses to false alarms. This ordinance encourages businesses and individuals to properly install and maintain their alarm systems. Presently the charge is waived for the 1st and 2nd false alarm of each calendar year. The 3rd and every subsequent activation during a calendar year requiring a response carries a $100 service charge.

14. What are the rules about having a fire outside?: Pittsfield Township requires a permit for open burning. Please call 734 822-4911 and speak with a fire department representative for details on how to obtain a permit. Read more FAQ’s about the Open Burn Ordinance.