Backyard Fires: Arlington Heights vs Oak Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Oak Park 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 →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park permits backyard recreational fires in portable fire bowls, chimineas, and similar contained fire devices under the same conditions as fire pits. Fires must be in approved containers, at least 15 feet from structures, attended at all times, and use only clean fuel. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are also permitted without restriction beyond standard safety practices.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, fire bowls | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | Clean wood, charcoal, fire logs only |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | 15 ft from structures |
| Attendance | Adult must be present at all times | - |
| Prohibited Materials | Yard waste, trash, treated wood | - |
| Containers | - | Chimineas, fire bowls, portable pits |
| Grills | - | Permitted for cooking |
| Contact | - | (708) 358-5600 Fire Dept. |
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 Park FAQ
Can I have a chiminea in my backyard in Oak Park?
Yes. Chimineas and portable fire devices are permitted with at least 15 feet of clearance from structures and fences. Use only clean dry wood or manufactured fire logs, and keep the fire attended at all times.
Are charcoal grills allowed in Oak Park backyards?
Yes. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are permitted without special restrictions. Use standard fire safety practices — keep grills away from structures and never leave hot coals unattended.
Can I burn wood in my backyard in Oak Park IL?
Only in an approved portable fire pit, fire bowl, or chiminea with proper setbacks. You may not burn wood in an open pile or burn yard waste, leaves, or trash under any circumstances.
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