Backyard Fires: Des Plaines vs Orland Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Orland 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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park permits small recreational fires in approved fire pits or chimineas with restrictions: maximum 3-foot diameter, only seasoned firewood (no yard waste, leaves, or trash), at least 25 feet from any structure, and constant adult supervision. The Orland Fire Protection District enforces fire safety rules.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Fires | Allowed in approved containers | - |
| Yard Waste Burning | Prohibited (Cook County) | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean seasoned wood only | - |
| Fine Range | $100–$500 (state up to $1,500/day) | $100–$500 (plus IEPA risk) |
| Max Pit Size | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Seasoned firewood only |
| Prohibited | - | Yard waste, leaves, trash, treated wood |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Orland Park IL?
Yes — in an approved fire pit no larger than 3 feet in diameter, at least 25 feet from any structure, burning only seasoned firewood with adult supervision.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Orland Park?
No. Burning leaves, yard waste, garbage, and treated wood is prohibited. Use the Village's yard waste collection program instead.
Who enforces backyard fire rules in Orland Park?
The Orland Fire Protection District at (708) 349-0074 enforces fire safety, with the Village handling code citations. Call OFPD before any large outdoor fire.
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