Centennial's Fire Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fire regulations a little differently. In Centennial, Colorado, 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

Recreational fire pits are permitted in Centennial when no burn ban is in effect. Fire pits must not exceed 3 feet in diameter with 2-foot maximum flame height. A 15-foot clearance from structures is required. Gas/propane fire pits are typically exempt from burn bans.

Key details: Max Size: 3 ft diameter, 2 ft flames. Clearance: 15 ft from structures. Ground Clear: 5 ft radius. Gas Pits: Usually burn-ban exempt.

Using a fire pit during a burn ban: citation by Arapahoe County Sheriff. Unattended fire: fire code violation.

Fireworks

Centennial prohibits the sale of all fireworks within city limits. Only limited 'permissible fireworks' that do not explode, leave the ground, or fly through the air (sparklers, cones, snakes, fountains) may be used and possessed. All fireworks are prohibited in parks and open spaces. Maximum penalty: $1,000 per offense.

Key details: Sales: Prohibited citywide. Permissible Types: Sparklers, cones, snakes, fountains. Parks/Open Space: All fireworks banned. Max Penalty: $1,000 per offense.

Fireworks violation: up to $1,000 per offense. Enforced by Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office and local fire officials.

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

Outdoor Burning

Centennial prohibits burning of trash, rubbish, construction materials, yard debris, leaves, or recyclable materials at all times. Recreational fires in approved fire pits (no larger than 3 ft diameter, 2 ft flame height) are permitted when no burn ban is in effect. Arapahoe County manages burn ban enforcement.

Key details: Trash/Debris: Never permitted. Fire Pit Size: Max 3 ft diameter, 2 ft flames. Clearance: 15 ft from structures. Supervision: Adult must be present.

Open burning of prohibited materials: citation. Violating burn ban restrictions: enforced by Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office.

Compared to other cities, Centennial takes a harder line on outdoor burning. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Centennial is tougher than many cities when it comes to fire regulations. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Centennial, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

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