How Bloomington Handles Fire Regulations: A Practical Guide

Bloomington maintains 27 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with fire regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Bloomington falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Fireworks

Minnesota law (MN §624.20-624.25) heavily restricts fireworks. Only non-explosive, non-aerial novelty items (sparklers under 100g, snakes, smoke devices) are legal for consumers. Aerial fireworks, firecrackers, Roman candles, and skyrockets are illegal. Must be 18+ to purchase. Legal items prohibited on public property.

Key details: Consumer Fireworks: Only sparklers and ground novelties. Aerial Fireworks: Illegal. Age Requirement: 18+ with photo ID. State Law: MN §624.20-624.25.

Possession of illegal fireworks: misdemeanor, up to $1,000 fine and/or 90 days jail. Gross misdemeanor for repeat offenses.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Bloomington actively enforces its fireworks requirements.

Fire Pit Rules

Portable fire pits and recreational fires allowed in Bloomington under strict conditions: contained in pit no larger than 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height, 25 ft from combustibles, constantly attended, dry clean firewood only, extinguishing equipment required, and no use when winds exceed 10 mph.

Key details: Max Fire Size: 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height. Setback: 25 ft from combustibles. Attendance: Constant — within sight of flames. Firewood Storage: 10 ft from property lines, screened.

Burning prohibited materials: $300 to $1,000. Fire code violation: $200 to $500. Property damage: criminal charges possible.

Outdoor Burning

Recreational fires and portable fire pits are permitted in Bloomington with conditions: fire pit max 3 ft diameter by 2 ft height, 25 ft setback from combustible structures, must be constantly attended, and prohibited when winds exceed 10 mph. Open burning otherwise prohibited except by permit.

Key details: Fire Pit Max Size: 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height. Setback: 25 ft from structures. Wind Limit: 10 mph sustained. City Code: Chapter 6.

MPCA violation: $500 to $10,000/day. Burning without DNR permit: misdemeanor. City fines: $200 to $500.

The Bottom Line

Bloomington'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 Bloomington is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Bloomington's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.