Backyard Fires: Arlington Heights vs Oak Lawn
How do backyard fires rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Oak Lawn.
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 →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn strictly regulates backyard fires. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers are allowed only with propane/natural gas or clean dry wood, must be at least 25 feet from structures, attended at all times, and extinguished by 11:00 PM.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, fire bowls | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | Clean wood or gas only |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Attendance | Adult must be present at all times | - |
| Prohibited Materials | Yard waste, trash, treated wood | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Fire Pit Setback | - | 25 ft (15 ft UL-listed) |
| Curfew | - | Extinguished by 11 PM |
| Fine Range | - | $250–$1,500 |
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.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Oak Lawn IL?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Yard waste must be bagged for Village collection.
How far must a fire pit be from my house in Oak Lawn?
At least 25 feet from structures, fences, and combustibles — or 15 feet for UL-listed manufactured units under IFC 307.
When do backyard fires have to be out in Oak Lawn?
Recreational fires must be fully extinguished by 11:00 PM and attended by an adult at all times while burning.
Compare other topics
See how Arlington Heights and Oak Lawn compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool