Fire Pit Rules: Albuquerque vs Tijeras
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Tijeras, NM?
Albuquerque has fewer restrictions than Tijeras.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Permanently installed outdoor fireplaces, permanent outdoor recreational fire rings, barbecue pits and portable fireplaces are exempt from the open-burning permit under Albuquerque Fire Code Section 307.2 Exception 2. They must still follow recreational-fire setbacks and may not be used during a declared burn ban.
View full Albuquerque rules →Tijeras, NM
Bernalillo County
Fire pits in Tijeras must comply with International Fire Code as enforced by Bernalillo County Fire Department. The village's location in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) means strict fire safety measures. Attended fires only; wood fuel only.
View full Tijeras rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Tijeras |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Albuquerque Fire Code 307.2 Exception 2 | - |
| Fire ring definition | Sec. 3302 - noncombustible ring imbedded in concrete | - |
| Recreational-fire setback | 25 ft from structure/combustibles | - |
| Portable fireplace setback | 15 ft from structure | - |
| Burn/No-Burn Hotline | (505) 768-2876 | - |
| Code | - | International Fire Code (via County) |
| WUI Zone | - | Village in Wildland-Urban Interface |
| Attendance | - | Fire must be attended at all times |
| Enforcement | - | Bernalillo County Fire Dept |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Albuquerque?
No. Permanent outdoor fireplaces, permanent recreational fire rings, barbecue pits and portable fireplaces are listed in Fire Code 307.2 Exception 2 as allowed without an open-burning permit, as long as you follow the recreational-fire setbacks and there is no active burn ban.
How far must a fire pit be from my house?
A recreational fire (including a fire ring) must be at least 25 feet from a structure or combustible materials; a portable outdoor fireplace must be at least 15 feet away and used per the manufacturer's instructions.
Can I use my fire pit during a burn ban?
No. Under Section 307.6 the Fire Chief can prohibit all open burning, including recreational fires, during high fire danger. Call the Burn/No-Burn Hotline at (505) 768-2876 before lighting.
Tijeras FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Tijeras?
Fire pits in Tijeras must comply with International Fire Code as enforced by Bernalillo County Fire Department. The village's location in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) means strict fire safety measures. Attended fires only; wood fuel only.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Tijeras?
Code: International Fire Code (via County). WUI Zone: Village in Wildland-Urban Interface. Attendance: Fire must be attended at all times. Enforcement: Bernalillo County Fire Dept.
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