Backyard Fires: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do backyard fires rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights permits backyard recreational fires in approved portable devices such as fire pits, chimineas, and fire bowls. Fires must burn only clean wood, be attended at all times, and maintain safe distances from structures and property lines.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines permits small recreational backyard fires in approved containers (fire pits or chimineas) burning only clean, seasoned firewood. Open burning of leaves, brush, or refuse is prohibited under Cook County and Illinois EPA rules. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure and continuously attended.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, fire bowls | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | Clean seasoned wood only |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | 25 feet from structures |
| Attendance | Adult must be present at all times | - |
| Prohibited Materials | Yard waste, trash, treated wood | - |
| Recreational Fires | - | Allowed in approved containers |
| Yard Waste Burning | - | Prohibited (Cook County) |
| Fine Range | - | $100–$500 (state up to $1,500/day) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Commercially manufactured portable fire pits are allowed if they burn clean seasoned wood, are at least 15 feet from structures, and are attended at all times.
What can I burn in my backyard fire pit?
Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood or manufactured fire logs. Burning yard waste, trash, cardboard, or treated wood is prohibited.
Can the fire department make me put out my fire?
Yes. The Fire Department may order any recreational fire extinguished if it poses a safety hazard or generates smoke complaints from neighbors.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard in Des Plaines?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and refuse is prohibited throughout Cook County under Illinois EPA rules. Use the City's yard-waste collection program instead.
Are backyard fire pits legal in Des Plaines IL?
Yes, in approved containers burning clean seasoned firewood, kept at least 25 feet from structures and continuously attended by an adult with extinguishing means at hand.
What is the fine for illegal burning in Des Plaines?
Local fines run $100 to $500 per occurrence. The Illinois EPA can add penalties up to $1,500 per day for repeat violations of state open-burning rules.
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