Fire Pit Rules: Boulder vs Longmont
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder and Longmont have similar restriction levels.
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
Boulder allows recreational fire pits with conditions. County burn bans apply during fire season. Gas pits typically exempt from burn bans.
View full Boulder rules →Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Longmont allows recreational fires with a fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height, burning only natural untreated wood, kept 25 feet from any structure or combustibles, and attended until fully extinguished. The rules are administered by Longmont Fire Services under the 2021 International Fire Code adopted by Ordinance O-2021-66 (LMC Chapter 16.32). Burning is prohibited on Red Flag days.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Burn Bans | Common June to October | - |
| Gas Pits | Typically exempt | - |
| Attended | Must be attended | - |
| Max Fuel Area | - | 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height |
| Setback | - | 25 ft from structures/combustibles |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Natural untreated wood only |
| Permit | - | None for recreational fire; bonfire requires permit |
| Fire Code Cite | - | LMC Ch. 16.32 (2021 IFC, Ord. O-2021-66) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
Can I have a fire pit?
Yes, when no county burn ban is active. Gas/propane pits are generally always permitted.
How do I check burn ban status?
County sheriff website, local news, or Colorado DFPC website.
Longmont FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Longmont?
Yes. Longmont Fire Services allows recreational fires with a fuel area no larger than three feet in diameter and two feet in height, burning only natural untreated wood, sited at least 25 feet from any structure or combustibles, and attended until fully extinguished. No permit is required.
What can I burn in my Longmont fire pit?
Only natural, untreated wood. Burning plastics, garbage or construction waste, wire insulation, rubber, petroleum-based products, animal waste, food service or industrial waste, and yard vegetation, leaves or debris is prohibited by Longmont Fire Services.
Are fire pits allowed on Red Flag warning days?
No. Longmont Fire Services prohibits burning of any kind on Red Flag days. Recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces are not allowed during a Red Flag warning regardless of size.
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