Open Burning & Recreational Fires

A burn permit is required for open burning involving:

  • Forestry, range, or wildlife management practices.
  • The prevention or control of disease or pests.
  • Bonfires (wood-fueled fire exceeding 3 feet in diameter) either within or without a confined barrier or pit.

A burn permit is not required for recreational fires meeting the following guidelines:

  • Recreational fire pits (not to exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height) and are contained within:
    • Earthen pit with sidewalls
    • Fireplace
    • Commercial grill
    • Manufactured fireplaces
  • Recreational fires must be a minimum of 15 feet from a structure and/or combustibles.
  • Recreational fires must be attended until extinguished.
  • Only firewood or charcoal may be burned.
  • Property owners must have knowledge of and authorize the activity.
  • A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher or other approved method of fire extinguishment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose, or water truck, shall be available for immediate use.
  • A fire contained within a barbeque grill and for the sole purpose of cooking is not a recreational fire.