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.

Wildfire Zones

Centennial designates wildfire hazard areas using the statewide CWRC Map, and any construction within those zones must comply with the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code.

Key details: Adopted code: 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code. Governing section: City Code § 18-16-30(3). Hazard map source: State CWRC Map. Enforced by: City Building Official.

Civil infraction for constructing, altering, or using a building in a wildfire hazard area without complying with the CWRC or a code official's order; penalty under Section 1-4-10(b).

Fire Pits & Backyard Fires

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.

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'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 Centennial is broadly strict or permissive.

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.