Fire Regulations in Fort Wayne, IN (2026)
7 verified fire regulations for Fort Wayne, Indiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pit Rules
Fort Wayne permits recreational fire pits under Indiana Fire Code (675 IAC 22). Pits must be 25 feet from structures, fueled with clean wood, and attended. FWFD responds to complaints.
Fire: Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsFireworks
Consumer fireworks are legal in Fort Wayne for adults 18+ under IC 22-11-14. Discharge hours are 9 AM to 11 PM, extended around July 4 and New Year. The city cannot ban fireworks.
Fire: Fireworks
Few RestrictionsBrush Clearance
Fort Wayne requires lots to be free of brush, deadwood, and combustible debris. Neighborhood Code Compliance issues a 10-day notice, then city abatement with costs billed as a lien.
Fire: Brush Clearance
Some RestrictionsOutdoor Burning
Open burning in Fort Wayne is restricted under IDEM rule 326 IAC 4-1. Burning leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Only small recreational fires with clean wood are allowed.
Fire: Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsWildfire Zones
Fort Wayne is not in a designated wildfire hazard area. Allen County has low risk, but commissioners may issue burn bans during drought. Indiana DNR tracks statewide fire activity.
Fire: Wildfire Zones
Few RestrictionsSmoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are required in all Fort Wayne dwellings under Indiana Residential Code 675 IAC 14: every bedroom, hallway, and floor. Landlords must provide working units at move-in.
Fire: Smoke Detectors
Heavy RestrictionsBackyard Fires
Backyard fires are allowed if contained, under 3 feet in diameter, fueled by clean wood, 25 feet from structures, and attended. Cooking fires in grills are exempt from open-burn rules.
Fire: Backyard Fires
Some RestrictionsLooking for Allen County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fort Wayne city rules.
Fire Regulations in Allen County →