Backyard Fires: Des Plaines vs Oak Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Oak Park have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines permits small recreational backyard fires in approved containers (fire pits or chimineas) burning only clean, seasoned firewood. Open burning of leaves, brush, or refuse is prohibited under Cook County and Illinois EPA rules. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure and continuously attended.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park permits backyard recreational fires in portable fire bowls, chimineas, and similar contained fire devices under the same conditions as fire pits. Fires must be in approved containers, at least 15 feet from structures, attended at all times, and use only clean fuel. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are also permitted without restriction beyond standard safety practices.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Fires | Allowed in approved containers | - |
| Yard Waste Burning | Prohibited (Cook County) | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | 15 ft from structures |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | Clean wood, charcoal, fire logs only |
| Fine Range | $100–$500 (state up to $1,500/day) | - |
| Containers | - | Chimineas, fire bowls, portable pits |
| Grills | - | Permitted for cooking |
| Contact | - | (708) 358-5600 Fire Dept. |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard in Des Plaines?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and refuse is prohibited throughout Cook County under Illinois EPA rules. Use the City's yard-waste collection program instead.
Are backyard fire pits legal in Des Plaines IL?
Yes, in approved containers burning clean seasoned firewood, kept at least 25 feet from structures and continuously attended by an adult with extinguishing means at hand.
What is the fine for illegal burning in Des Plaines?
Local fines run $100 to $500 per occurrence. The Illinois EPA can add penalties up to $1,500 per day for repeat violations of state open-burning rules.
Oak Park FAQ
Can I have a chiminea in my backyard in Oak Park?
Yes. Chimineas and portable fire devices are permitted with at least 15 feet of clearance from structures and fences. Use only clean dry wood or manufactured fire logs, and keep the fire attended at all times.
Are charcoal grills allowed in Oak Park backyards?
Yes. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are permitted without special restrictions. Use standard fire safety practices — keep grills away from structures and never leave hot coals unattended.
Can I burn wood in my backyard in Oak Park IL?
Only in an approved portable fire pit, fire bowl, or chiminea with proper setbacks. You may not burn wood in an open pile or burn yard waste, leaves, or trash under any circumstances.
Compare other topics
See how Des Plaines and Oak Park compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool