Fire Pit Rules: Charlotte vs Matthews
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Matthews, NC?
Charlotte and Matthews have similar restriction levels.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Portable outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are not classified as open burning in Charlotte. No permit required. Fuel area must not exceed 3 ft diameter and 2 ft height. Must be >25 ft from structures, constantly attended, with extinguishing equipment on hand.
View full Charlotte rules →Matthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Matthews allows recreational fire pits subject to NC Fire Code. Pits must be 25 feet from structures, with only clean seasoned wood permitted. Matthews Fire-EMS responds to complaints.
View full Matthews rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Charlotte | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | No — not classified as open burning | - |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter × 2 ft height | - |
| Setback | >25 ft from structure or combustibles | - |
| Attendance | Constantly attended until extinguished | - |
| AQI Days | No burning on Red/Orange/Purple days | - |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Pit Size | - | 3 ft diameter max |
| Fuel | - | Clean seasoned wood only |
| Supervision | - | Must be attended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Charlotte FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Charlotte?
Portable outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are not classified as open burning in Charlotte. No permit required. Fuel area must not exceed 3 ft diameter and 2 ft height. Must be >25 ft from structures, constantly attended, with extinguishing equipment on hand.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Charlotte?
Permit Required: No — not classified as open burning. Max Size: 3 ft diameter × 2 ft height. Setback: >25 ft from structure or combustibles. Attendance: Constantly attended until extinguished.
Matthews FAQ
Can I use a chiminea on my patio?
Yes, portable outdoor fireplaces need 15 ft clearance from structures per NC Fire Code.
Can I burn leaves in my fire pit?
No. Recreational fires are for clean wood only; yard waste falls under outdoor burning rules.
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