Fire Pit Rules: Dover vs Tampa
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Dover, FL and Tampa, FL?
Dover and Tampa have similar restriction levels.
Dover, FL
Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County permits residential fire pits under Fire Rescue rules when kept small, contained, and at least 15 feet from structures. Portable propane and natural gas units are generally allowed on patios. Wood-burning pits require supervision and a water source on hand, with burn bans suspending use during drought.
View full Dover rules →Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County
Tampa Fire Rescue allows portable recreational fire pits and chimineas under Florida Fire Prevention Code conditions, requiring small fuel size, attended supervision, and minimum clearance from structures and combustibles.
View full Tampa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dover | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | - |
| Size | Under 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Gas Units | Allowed, exempt from burn bans | - |
| Attendance | Required with water source | Required throughout burn |
| Agency | Hillsborough County Fire Rescue | - |
| Pile size cap | - | Three feet wide |
| Setback open fire | - | Twenty-five feet |
| Setback chiminea | - | Fifteen feet typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dover FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Hillsborough County?
Residential fire pits in unincorporated Hillsborough County require no permit for small commercially sold pits. Rules: must be at least 25 feet from any structure, burn only clean dry wood, use a non-flammable container, and have constant adult attendance. Prohibited under active emergency burn...
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Hillsborough County?
Permit: Not required for small pits. Setback: 25 ft from structures. Fuel: Clean dry wood only. Burn Ban: Fire pits banned during bans.
Tampa FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Tampa?
Generally no permit is required for small recreational fires that meet size, fuel, and setback rules, but commercial bonfires or larger ceremonial fires need a Tampa Fire Rescue permit.
Can I burn yard waste in my fire pit?
No. Tampa prohibits burning leaves, brush, garbage, or treated lumber in recreational fire pits. Yard waste must go to curbside pickup or county yard-waste drop-off facilities.
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