Arizona Fire Pit and Outdoor Burning Regulations (2026)

Arizona's dry climate and frequent drought conditions make fire safety a serious concern for homeowners. Fire pit and outdoor burning regulations in the state are designed to balance the enjoyment of outdoor living with the very real risk of wildfires and property damage. Each city sets its own specific rules, but there are common themes across the Phoenix metro area.

Fire Pit Rules in Phoenix

Phoenix allows recreational fire pits in residential areas with standard conditions. Fire pits must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and placed at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material. Fires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before being left unattended. Phoenix also prohibits fire pits during high wind conditions and fire weather watches. The Phoenix Fire Department can issue citations for fire pit violations, with fines starting at $150.

Scottsdale and Mesa Fire Rules

Scottsdale follows similar fire pit standards to Phoenix but adds requirements for properties near natural desert areas. The city's wildland-urban interface rules require additional fire-resistant landscaping and may restrict fire pit use during elevated fire danger periods. Mesa allows recreational fire pits with the standard 15-foot setback and attended-fire requirements. Both cities prohibit the burning of anything other than clean, dry firewood or manufactured fire logs.

Open Burning Restrictions

Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited within the city limits of all major Phoenix metro cities. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department enforces a no-burn rule for residential properties that prohibits the burning of household waste. Agricultural burning requires a permit from the county. During periods of poor air quality, which are common during summer dust storms and winter inversions, additional burn restrictions may be imposed.

Gas Fire Features

Gas fire pits and fire tables are subject to fewer restrictions than wood-burning fire pits across Arizona. Because they produce no smoke or particulates, gas fire features are generally exempt from air quality restrictions. Many Arizona homeowners prefer gas fire features for this reason. Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria all allow gas fire pits with reduced setback requirements compared to wood-burning pits. Some cities require a gas connection permit if the fire feature is connected to a natural gas line.

Fireworks Regulations

Arizona state law allows the sale of certain consumer fireworks, but most cities in the Phoenix metro area prohibit their use within city limits. Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert all ban consumer fireworks. Tempe and Glendale follow suit. Penalties for fireworks violations typically range from $250 to $1,000. The fire risk associated with fireworks in the desert environment drives these strict local bans.

Seasonal Burn Bans

During drought conditions or periods of high fire danger, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management can issue statewide or regional fire restrictions. These restrictions override any local permissions and prohibit all outdoor fires, including recreational fire pits. Burn ban status is updated regularly and can be checked through the state's fire restriction website or your local fire department.