Fire Pit Rules: Denton vs Little Elm
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Denton, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Little Elm has fewer restrictions than Denton.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Recreational fire pits and open fires are prohibited within Denton city limits under the open burning prohibition in Ch. 29 Fire Code (Ord. 22-663 adopting the 2021 International Fire Code). Enclosed charcoal and gas grills used for outdoor cooking are permitted. Contact Denton Fire Prevention at (940) 349-8600 for questions.
View full Denton rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Little Elm regulates fire pits under the 2018 International Fire Code adopted with local amendments in Sec. 50-108. Portable outdoor fireplaces are allowed at one- and two-family dwellings on non-combustible surfaces like concrete pads or maintained lawns. Permanent fire pits must maintain a minimum 10-foot clearance from any structure or combustible material. Recreational fires must be constantly attended.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Pits | Prohibited in city limits | - |
| Cooking Grills | Enclosed grills permitted | - |
| Code | Ch. 29, Ord. 22-663 (2021 IFC) | - |
| Setback | 300 ft from structures (IFC 307.4) | - |
| Contact | Fire Prevention: (940) 349-8600 | - |
| Permanent Pit Setback | - | 10 ft from structures |
| Portable Surface | - | Concrete or maintained lawn |
| Attendance | - | Constantly attended |
| Burn Permit | - | $25/year |
| Fire Code | - | 2018 IFC (Ord. 1494) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Denton?
No. Recreational fire pits are prohibited within Denton city limits under the open burning ban in Ch. 29. The 300-foot setback from structures makes residential fire pits impractical even if an exception were granted.
Are gas fire tables allowed?
Enclosed gas fire tables used for cooking or ambiance are generally permitted. Contact Denton Fire Prevention at (940) 349-8600 to confirm your specific model complies before use.
What about fire pits in unincorporated Denton County?
Unincorporated areas fall under the Denton County Fire Marshal, which has different rules. Recreational and cooking fires may be allowed with TCEQ and Fire Marshal approval. Call the County Fire Marshal at (940) 349-2840.
Little Elm FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Little Elm?
Portable fire pits on proper surfaces at single-family homes do not require a separate permit. An annual burn permit ($25) is required for other outdoor burning. Permanent fire pits must meet 10-foot setback requirements.
Can I use my fire pit during a burn ban?
No. During Denton County fire emergencies, all outdoor combustible material use is prohibited. Outdoor cooking is only allowed in fully enclosed devices.
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