Backyard Fires: Arlington Heights vs Orland Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Orland 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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park permits small recreational fires in approved fire pits or chimineas with restrictions: maximum 3-foot diameter, only seasoned firewood (no yard waste, leaves, or trash), at least 25 feet from any structure, and constant adult supervision. The Orland Fire Protection District enforces fire safety rules.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, fire bowls | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | - |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Attendance | Adult must be present at all times | - |
| Prohibited Materials | Yard waste, trash, treated wood | - |
| Max Pit Size | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Seasoned firewood only |
| Prohibited | - | Yard waste, leaves, trash, treated wood |
| Fine Range | - | $100–$500 (plus IEPA risk) |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Orland Park IL?
Yes — in an approved fire pit no larger than 3 feet in diameter, at least 25 feet from any structure, burning only seasoned firewood with adult supervision.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Orland Park?
No. Burning leaves, yard waste, garbage, and treated wood is prohibited. Use the Village's yard waste collection program instead.
Who enforces backyard fire rules in Orland Park?
The Orland Fire Protection District at (708) 349-0074 enforces fire safety, with the Village handling code citations. Call OFPD before any large outdoor fire.
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