Backyard Fires: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do backyard fires rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg allows recreational fire pits but restricts their size and placement. Fire pits must be kept at least 10 feet from structures. Fires larger than 3 feet in diameter are classified as bonfires and require 1,500 feet of clearance. Only aged dried wood may be burned.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville permits fire pits and chimineas without a permit if kept 20 feet from structures, burning only dry natural wood, with an adult supervising at all times.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance | 10 feet from structures | - |
| Max Size | 3 feet diameter (recreational) | - |
| Fuel | Aged dried wood only | Dry natural wood only |
| Multi-Family Grills | 20 feet from building | - |
| Code | Chapter 11, NFPA 1 | - |
| Permit | - | Not required for recreational fires |
| Setback | - | 20 feet from structures |
| Supervision | - | Adult 18+ must attend |
| Prohibited | - | Balconies, decks, bad air days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Gaithersburg backyard?
Yes, recreational fire pits are allowed. Keep the pit at least 10 feet from structures with 3 feet of clear space around it. Only burn aged dried wood, and never leave the fire unattended.
Can I use a grill at my apartment or condo?
Charcoal or fuel-burning grills at multi-family dwellings must be at least 20 feet from the building. Townhouses with fire wall separation are exempt from this distance requirement.
Rockville FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Rockville?
No permit is required for portable fire pits, fire bowls, or chimineas. You must keep them at least 20 feet from structures, burn only dry natural wood, and have an adult supervising with water nearby.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Rockville?
No. Open burning of yard waste, leaves, brush, and construction debris is prohibited under Montgomery County DEP regulations. Only recreational fires using dry natural wood are permitted.
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