The question of how big a cul de sac should be for fire safety is causing a bit more discussion than what was perhaps envisioned. At issue is the Ottawa Fire Department’s request to make all new developments with a cul de sac to be at least 96 feet to allow fire trucks to turn around. Community Development Director Wyndee Lee told the Ottawa Planning Commission that after a recent meeting between several departments, things got a little more complicated.
Lee says a general consensus has been reached for a minimum of 80 feet, but the exact number would depend on a variety of factors. She also says they plan to take a fire truck out to a cul de sac to get a better idea of what is needed for turning the vehicle around. The Planning Commission will consider the matter again in January.
