Fire Pit Rules: Alpharetta vs Roswell
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Roswell, GA?
Alpharetta and Roswell have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Recreational fire pits in Fulton County must comply with Georgia EPD Open Burning Rules and IFC §307. Pits over 3 ft diameter or burning anything other than seasoned firewood require a permit.
View full Alpharetta rules →Roswell, GA
Fulton County
Recreational fires - small cooking and warming fires in approved portable fire pits or chimineas - are allowed under Roswell's outdoor-burning ordinance even though general open burning is prohibited, subject to the Fire Marshal's burn-ban authority.
View full Roswell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Roswell |
|---|---|---|
| Max pile | 3 ft × 2 ft | - |
| Setback | 25 ft from structure | - |
| Allowed fuel | Seasoned firewood only | - |
| Max Fire Size | - | 3 ft diameter x 2 ft high |
| Setback (open fire) | - | 25 ft from structure |
| Portable Fireplace | - | 15 ft setback typical |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Wood and clean charcoal only |
| Burn Ban Authority | - | Roswell Fire Marshal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Can I burn during the summer ban?
Recreational fires under 3 ft are exempt from the May-Sept burn ban; yard-debris burning is not.
Do I need a permit for a chiminea?
No — small commercial-design devices on patios are exempt under IFC §307.4.2.
Roswell FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Roswell?
Yes, recreational fires are allowed under IFC §307.4.2 - up to 3 ft diameter and 2 ft high, at least 25 ft from any structure (15 ft for portable outdoor fireplaces). The Fire Marshal can suspend the allowance during burn bans.
Can I burn yard debris in my fire pit?
No. Roswell's adopted IFC limits recreational-fire fuel to wood or charcoal. Burning leaves or yard debris is treated as open burning, which is prohibited under Art. 8.3.
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