Annapolis's Fire Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fire regulations a little differently. In Annapolis, Maryland, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Fire Pit Rules

Annapolis fire pits must be UL-listed appliances with a 15-foot setback from all structures. Attended at all times. No burning of trash, leaves, or yard debris. Dense Historic District lots require extra care given proximity to neighbors.

Key details: Setback: 15 feet from all structures. Container: UL-listed with spark screen. Supervision: Constant until extinguished. Fuel: Clean wood only.

Violation of fire pit rules: fire marshal citation. Setback violation: citation and required extinguishment.

Fireworks

Consumer fireworks are banned statewide under Maryland Code, Public Safety §10-101. Annapolis Code reinforces the ban. Only sparklers not containing chlorates or perchlorates (gold-label) are legal. Violation can result in a $250+ fine.

Key details: Consumer Fireworks: Banned statewide. Sparklers: Gold-label only (no chlorates). Display Fireworks: Permit only. State Law: MD Public Safety §10-101.

Consumer fireworks possession/discharge: misdemeanor; fines up to $250 first offense, $1,000 subsequent. State law enforcement applies.

Compared to other cities, Annapolis takes a harder line on fireworks. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Outdoor Burning

Annapolis allows small recreational fires for personal use or cooking in UL-listed appliances with a 15-foot setback from structures. Burning trash, leaves, and debris is prohibited. Bonfires require a Fire Marshal permit.

Key details: Setback: 15 feet from structures, fences, decks. Container: UL-listed appliance required. Prohibited: Trash, leaves, debris. Bonfires: Permit required from Fire Marshal.

Burning prohibited materials: fire code citation. Fire without required setbacks: fire marshal citation. Unpermitted bonfire: fine.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis's fire regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Annapolis is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Annapolis's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.