Backyard Fires: Denton vs Flower Mound
How do backyard fires rules compare between Denton, TX and Flower Mound, TX?
Denton has fewer restrictions than Flower Mound.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton allows recreational fire pits under IFC 307.4: constantly attended, 15 ft from structures, clean dry wood only. Max 3-ft diameter pit.
View full Denton rules →Flower Mound, TX
Denton County
Flower Mound prohibits open wood-burning fires in backyards under Ch. 38 and the adopted 2024 International Fire Code. Enclosed gas and propane fire pits, chimineas fueled by gas, and standard cooking grills are permitted. Recreational wood-burning fires, bonfires, and burn barrels are not allowed within town limits.
View full Flower Mound rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Flower Mound |
|---|---|---|
| Code | IFC 307.4 via Ord. 22-663 | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures/fences | - |
| Attendance | Must be constantly attended | - |
| Fuel | Clean dry wood or mfr logs only | - |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height | - |
| Wood-Burning Fires | - | Prohibited in backyards |
| Gas/Propane Fire Pits | - | Permitted with enclosed flame |
| Cooking Grills | - | Charcoal and gas grills allowed |
| Bonfires/Burn Barrels | - | Not allowed within town limits |
| Fire Marshal | - | (972) 874-6000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Denton?
Yes. Portable fire pits and chimineas are allowed if they are at least 15 feet from structures, constantly attended, and burn only clean dry wood. Maximum pit size is 3 feet in diameter.
Can I burn leaves in my fire pit?
No. Yard waste, leaves, and brush may not be burned. Only clean dry untreated wood or manufactured fire logs are permitted fuels.
Are there times when backyard fires are banned?
Yes. The Fire Marshal may impose temporary burn restrictions during drought conditions or air quality alerts.
Flower Mound FAQ
Can I have a wood-burning fire pit in my Flower Mound backyard?
No. Open wood-burning fires are prohibited within Flower Mound town limits under Ch. 38. You may use a gas or propane fire pit that produces a contained flame instead.
What about a chiminea or outdoor fireplace?
Chimineas and outdoor fireplaces must use gas or propane fuel. Wood-burning versions are not permitted because they constitute open burning under the fire code. Gas-fueled models with enclosed flames are allowed.
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