Outdoor Burning: Fort Worth vs Grapevine
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Fort Worth, TX and Grapevine, TX?
Fort Worth and Grapevine have similar restriction levels.
Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth Code Chapter 13 adopts the 2021 International Fire Code, which generally prohibits open burning of refuse and yard waste inside city limits. The Fire Marshal may also impose temporary burn bans during drought.
View full Fort Worth rules →Grapevine, TX
Tarrant County
Grapevine prohibits outdoor burning of trash, yard waste, and construction debris under Chapter 18 and the International Fire Code. Only approved recreational fires and permitted ceremonial fires are allowed.
View full Grapevine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Worth | Grapevine |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | Fort Worth Code Ch. 13 (adopts 2021 IFC) | - |
| Trench Burn Setback | 300 ft from structures and property lines | - |
| Firebreak | 50 ft from vegetation | - |
| County Burn Bans | Tarrant County declarations apply citywide | - |
| Trash Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Yard Waste | - | Prohibited |
| Allowed | - | Recreational, cooking, ceremonial |
| State Rule | - | TCEQ 30 TAC Ch 111 |
| Burn Ban | - | Overrides all allowances |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my Fort Worth backyard?
No. Burning yard waste and refuse is prohibited inside the city under Chapter 13 and the adopted 2021 IFC. Only approved recreational fires and small cooking fires are allowed.
How do I find out if there's a burn ban?
Burn bans are declared by Tarrant County and announced by the Fort Worth Fire Marshal. During a declared ban, all otherwise-permitted outdoor fires are suspended.
Grapevine FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my Grapevine backyard?
No. Leaf burning and yard-waste burning are prohibited. Use the city yard-waste pickup or haul to a green-waste drop-off instead.
Can I have a bonfire for a family event?
A small recreational fire in an approved fire pit using clean firewood is allowed when no burn ban is in effect. Larger ceremonial bonfires need a permit from the Fire Department.
What do I do with construction debris?
Use a licensed hauler or take to a permitted landfill. Burning construction debris is prohibited by city code and TCEQ rules and can generate hazardous air contaminants.
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