Fire Regulations in Milwaukee, WI (2026)
8 verified fire regulations for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pit Rules
Portable fire pits allowed under MCO §214-9. Must be metal, concrete, or brick, screened to prevent ember escape, and located at least 15 feet from combustible structures.
Milwaukee Fire Pit Regulations
Some RestrictionsFireworks
ALL consumer fireworks are banned in Milwaukee under MCO §105.47. Even sparklers are prohibited. Fine up to $1,000. Only licensed professional displays with a permit are allowed.
Milwaukee Fireworks Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsBrush Clearance
Milwaukee has no wildland brush clearance mandate. Vegetation management is handled through the weed and nuisance ordinance in Chapter 80 with an 8-inch grass height standard.
Fire: Brush Clearance
Few RestrictionsOutdoor Burning
Outdoor fire pits are allowed in Milwaukee under MCO §214-9 with a 15-foot setback from combustible structures, screened/covered container, and proper fuel. Open burning of waste is prohibited.
Milwaukee Outdoor Burning Rules
Some RestrictionsWildfire Zones
Milwaukee is not located in a designated wildfire hazard zone. The Wisconsin DNR maps no WUI zones within the city limits.
Fire: Wildfire Zones
Few RestrictionsSmoke Detectors
Milwaukee Code Chapter 214 requires working smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on every floor, plus interconnected hardwired alarms in new construction and major remodels.
Fire: Smoke Detectors
Heavy RestrictionsBackyard Fires
Milwaukee bans open burning of yard waste and rubbish. Only small recreational fires in approved portable fire pits with seasoned wood are allowed under Chapter 214.
Fire: Backyard Fires
Heavy RestrictionsPropane Storage
Milwaukee Fire Department enforces NFPA 58 and IFC chapter 61 (adopted via Ch. 200) limiting residential propane storage. Cylinders larger than one pound must be stored outdoors, away from ignition sources, and not in basements.
Residential Propane Cylinder Storage Limits
Some RestrictionsLooking for Milwaukee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Milwaukee city rules.
Fire Regulations in Milwaukee County →