Smudging Ceremony Guidelines

Smudging Ceremony Guidelines

Smudging is an Indigenous tradition which involves the burning of sweetgrass, sage, and/or cedar. Sage and cedar smudges produce a very strong and distinct aroma but the smoke associated with it is minimal and lasts a very short time. Sweetgrass has a very mild aroma and produces less smoke. A smudge is burned primarily for purification and to help to create a positive mind set.

Tobacco is used in pipe ceremonies by pipe carriers.

Under Section 13 of Ontario Smoke Free Act smudging, the use of tobacco, the smoking of tobacco or holding lighted tobacco by First Nations and Metis persons for traditional First Nations and Metis cultural or spiritual purposes are permitted. The University of Toronto Scarborough has recognized that smudging and pipe ceremonies are a part of the Indigenous traditional way of life and are therefore permitted on campus.

Please keep in mind the following:

See the list of rooms below that have been pre-approved as locations for smudging ceremonies.  If another location is requested, it must be approved by Fire Manager and Chief Engineer.

Prior to the event, an email notification must be sent to the building occupants in the surrounding area (48-hour notice).

Some people may have sensitivity or allergies to the smoke created during the ceremony, and they must be given the opportunity to leave the area prior to the event.

Prior to the ceremony, please make note of the nearest fire extinguisher.

During the ceremony a notice must be posted on the door of the location.

During the ceremony, never leave any burning material unattended and douse the burning material immediately after the conclusion of the smudging ceremony.