Fire Pit Rules: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do fire pit rules 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 Fire Prevention Bureau regulates outdoor fire pits under the village's fire code. Portable and permanent fire pits are allowed in residential backyards with conditions including setback distances from structures, fuel type restrictions, and size limits. Open burning is generally prohibited, but contained recreational fires in approved fire pits are permitted. Arlington Heights Fire Department at (847) 368-5230 enforces fire pit regulations.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Small recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed in Des Plaines under the Fire Code. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau for current rules on fire pits and portable fireplaces.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 feet from structures/property lines | - |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood or manufactured logs only | - |
| Supervision | Adult must attend at all times | - |
| Contact | (847) 368-5230 AH Fire | Fire Prevention Bureau: 847-391-5333 |
| Code | - | Des Plaines MC Chapter 3 (IFC adopted) |
| Typical Setback | - | 10–15 feet from structures |
| Size Guideline | - | Recreational fires max 3 ft diameter |
| Refuse Burning | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Recreational fire pits are permitted in backyards with conditions: 15-foot setback from structures, 3-foot maximum diameter, clean firewood only, adult supervision required, and a spark screen must be used.
Can I use a propane fire pit in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Propane and natural gas fire pits/tables are permitted and generally have fewer restrictions than wood-burning fire pits since they produce less smoke and sparking.
Can I burn yard waste in my fire pit in Arlington Heights?
No. Only clean, dry firewood or manufactured fire logs are permitted. Burning yard waste, leaves, trash, construction debris, or treated lumber is prohibited.
Des Plaines FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Des Plaines?
Small recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed in Des Plaines under the Fire Code. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau for current rules on fire pits and portable fireplaces.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Des Plaines?
Code: Des Plaines MC Chapter 3 (IFC adopted). Typical Setback: 10–15 feet from structures. Size Guideline: Recreational fires max 3 ft diameter. Refuse Burning: Prohibited.
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