Fire Pit Rules: Arlington Heights vs Oak Lawn
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Arlington Heights and Oak Lawn 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 →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Portable fire pits and recreational fires may be allowed in Oak Lawn subject to Village fire code standards. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau for current fire pit regulations.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 feet from structures/property lines | Typically 10–15 feet from structures |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood or manufactured logs only | Clean dry wood only — no trash or refuse |
| Supervision | Adult must attend at all times | - |
| Contact | (847) 368-5230 AH Fire | Fire Prevention Bureau: 708-636-4400 |
| Code | - | Oak Lawn Village Code (IFC adopted) |
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.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Oak Lawn?
Portable fire pits and recreational fires may be allowed in Oak Lawn subject to Village fire code standards. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau for current fire pit regulations.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Oak Lawn?
Code: Oak Lawn Village Code (IFC adopted). Setback: Typically 10–15 feet from structures. Fuel: Clean dry wood only — no trash or refuse. Contact: Fire Prevention Bureau: 708-636-4400.
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