Fire Pit Rules: Austin vs Denver
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Austin, TX and Denver, CO?
Austin has fewer restrictions than Denver.
Austin, TX
Travis County
Fire pits and backyard fires are allowed in Austin if used for cooking or warmth and kept to 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. Permanent outdoor fireplaces and enclosed barbecue pits are permitted. Burning trash is prohibited.
View full Austin rules →Denver, CO
Denver County
Wood-burning fire pits illegal in Denver. Only gas-fueled (propane/natural gas) fire features permitted. Cooking devices (gas/charcoal grills) exempt from permit requirement but charcoal banned on balconies.
View full Denver rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Austin | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Size Limit | ≤3 ft diameter, ≤2 ft tall | - |
| Purpose | Cooking, warmth, ceremonial | - |
| Trash Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Enclosed BBQ Pit | Allowed anytime | - |
| Permit | Not required for small fires | - |
| Wood Fire Pits | - | Prohibited |
| Gas Fire Pits | - | Allowed |
| Cooking Exemption | - | Grills exempt from permit |
| Balcony Charcoal | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Austin FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Austin?
Fire pits and backyard fires are allowed in Austin if used for cooking or warmth and kept to 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. Permanent outdoor fireplaces and enclosed barbecue pits are permitted. Burning trash is prohibited.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Austin?
Size Limit: ≤3 ft diameter, ≤2 ft tall. Purpose: Cooking, warmth, ceremonial. Trash Burning: Prohibited. Enclosed BBQ Pit: Allowed anytime.
Denver FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Denver?
Wood-burning fire pits illegal in Denver. Only gas-fueled (propane/natural gas) fire features permitted. Cooking devices (gas/charcoal grills) exempt from permit requirement but charcoal banned on balconies.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Denver?
Wood Fire Pits: Prohibited. Gas Fire Pits: Allowed. Cooking Exemption: Grills exempt from permit. Balcony Charcoal: Prohibited.
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