Fire Pit Rules: Fitchburg vs Madison
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Fitchburg, WI and Madison, WI?
Fitchburg has fewer restrictions than Madison.
Fitchburg, WI
Dane County
Recreational fire pits in unincorporated Dane County are generally permitted subject to Wisconsin DNR burning guidelines and common-sense safety practices. No specific county fire pit ordinance exists.
View full Fitchburg rules →Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison allows recreational fire pits under MGO Chapter 10, limited to clean seasoned firewood in approved containers no larger than 3 feet in diameter. Fires must be attended, at least 25 feet from structures, and extinguished at night.
View full Madison rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fitchburg | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| County Ordinance | None specific to fire pits | - |
| DNR Oversight | Burn permits may be required seasonally | - |
| Permitted Fuel | Clean, dry firewood only | - |
| Topic | Fire Pit Rules | - |
| Authority | - | MGO Chapter 10 |
| Max Size | - | 3 ft diameter pile |
| Setback | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Fuel | - | Clean firewood only |
| Attendance | - | Adult required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fitchburg FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in rural Dane County?
Generally yes. Recreational fires in contained fire pits are permitted subject to Wisconsin DNR guidelines. Check for active burn bans at dnr.wisconsin.gov before lighting any fire.
What can I legally burn in a Dane County fire pit?
Only clean, dry firewood. Burning trash, treated lumber, plastics, or construction waste violates Wis. Stat. §26.12 regardless of whether the fire is contained.
Can I leave a backyard fire unattended in rural Dane County?
No. Recreational fires must be supervised at all times and fully extinguished when finished. Unattended fires that escape can expose the owner to civil liability and state citations.
Madison FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Madison?
No permit is required for a small recreational fire that meets MGO Chapter 10 size, setback, and fuel rules.
Can I burn leaves in my fire pit?
No. Madison prohibits burning of leaves, yard waste, and refuse at all times regardless of container.
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