Lakewood's Fire Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fire regulations a little differently. In Lakewood, 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

Lakewood allows recreational fire pits with restrictions. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures and attended at all times. All fires are banned during fire restriction periods.

Key details: Setback: 15 feet from structures. Fuel: Clean wood or gas only. Supervision: Must be attended. Fire Bans: All fires prohibited during bans.

Violations result in fines. Fires during ban periods carry enhanced penalties.

Fireworks

Lakewood bans all consumer fireworks within city limits. Only licensed professional displays are permitted. Colorado law allows limited consumer fireworks but cities may restrict further.

Key details: Consumer Fireworks: Banned within city limits. Professional Displays: Permit and fire supervision required. Enforcement: West Metro Fire Rescue. Fine: Up to $999.

Illegal fireworks result in fines up to $999 and confiscation. Fires caused by fireworks carry additional liability.

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

Outdoor Burning

Lakewood prohibits open burning within city limits. Burning trash, leaves, and yard debris is not permitted. Only contained recreational fires are allowed with restrictions.

Key details: Open Burning: Prohibited. Fire Pits: Contained recreational fires may be allowed. Fire Bans: All outdoor fires prohibited during bans. Enforcement: West Metro Fire Rescue.

Open burning violations result in fines and potential fire department response charges.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Lakewood actively enforces its outdoor burning requirements.

The Bottom Line

Lakewood 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 Lakewood, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Lakewood'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.