Backyard Fires: Des Plaines vs Tinley Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Tinley 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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Tinley Park at single-family homes subject to International Fire Code limits. Fires must be in an approved container, under 3 feet by 2 feet, 25 feet from structures, burn only clean seasoned wood, and be constantly attended. Open burning of yard waste or trash is prohibited.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Tinley 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) | - |
| Allowed | - | Recreational wood fires only |
| Size Limit | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Attendance | - | Constantly attended |
| Contact | - | (708) 444-5300 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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Tinley Park IL?
Yes, recreational wood fires are allowed at one- and two-family homes in approved containers, under size limits, with 25-foot clearance, and only using clean seasoned firewood.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire in Tinley Park?
No permit is needed for a code-compliant recreational fire at a single-family home. Questions can be directed to the Fire Department at (708) 444-5300.
What can't I burn in a Tinley Park backyard?
Leaves, yard waste, trash, construction debris, and any refuse are prohibited. Only clean seasoned firewood may be burned, and smoke must not create a neighbor nuisance.
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