Backyard Fires: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do backyard fires rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Skokie.
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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Backyard recreational fires in Skokie are tightly restricted under Chapter 50. Wood fires must be in a manufactured fire pit, kept 15 feet from any structure, burn only clean seasoned wood, and be attended at all times. Gas-fueled patio fire features are freely permitted.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Devices | Portable fire pits, chimineas, fire bowls | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood 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 | - |
| Fuel Allowed | - | Seasoned firewood only |
| Supervision | - | Adult required at all times |
| Gas Features | - | Freely permitted |
| Fine Range | - | $100–$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.
Skokie FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Skokie IL?
Small recreational wood fires are allowed only in a manufactured fire pit kept 15 feet from structures, burning clean seasoned wood, with an attending adult and a water source nearby. Gas fire features are freely permitted.
Can my neighbor complain about backyard fire smoke in Skokie?
Yes. Smoke drifting across property lines can be reported as a nuisance violation. The Fire Department may order any non-compliant or nuisance-producing fire extinguished immediately.
What is the fine for an illegal backyard fire in Skokie?
Fines range from $100 to $750 for a first offense and up to $1,500 for repeat violations. The Fire Department may also order immediate extinguishment.
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