Backyard Fires: Boulder vs Longmont
How do backyard fires rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
No data available yet for Boulder.
Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Backyard fires in Longmont are limited to recreational fires (max 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height of natural untreated wood, 25 ft from structures, attended) or portable outdoor fireplaces operated per manufacturer instructions. Burning yard waste, leaves, trash, or household debris is prohibited. No burning of any kind is allowed on Red Flag warning days. Bonfires (up to 8 ft diameter, 4 ft height) require a permit and pre-ignition inspection by Longmont Fire Codes and Planning.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Max Recreational Fire | - | 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height |
| Max Bonfire (permit) | - | 8 ft diameter x 4 ft height |
| Setback (recreational) | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Setback (bonfire) | - | 50 ft from structures |
| Banned | - | Yard waste, leaves, trash, plastics, treated wood |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
No FAQs available.
Longmont FAQ
Can I burn yard debris in my Longmont backyard?
No. Longmont Fire Services prohibits burning yard vegetation, leaves, or debris. Only natural untreated wood may be burned in a recreational fire (max 3 ft x 2 ft) or in a portable outdoor fireplace following manufacturer instructions.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire in Longmont?
No permit is required for a recreational fire (max 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height) or for a portable outdoor fireplace. A bonfire (up to 8 ft diameter, 4 ft height) does require a permit from Longmont Fire Codes and Planning and must be inspected prior to ignition.
Can I have a backyard fire on a Red Flag day?
No. Longmont Fire Services prohibits burning of any kind, including recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces, while a Red Flag warning is in effect. Natural gas appliances that are permanently installed may continue to operate.
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