Fire Pit Rules: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg permits recreational fire pits under Maryland Fire Prevention Code and Montgomery County fire regulations. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures, property lines, and combustible materials. Only clean dry wood or gas fuel is permitted. A means of extinguishment must be readily available.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Recreational fires in Rockville follow Montgomery County open burning rules. Fires using dry natural wood (max 3 ft diameter), attended by an adult, with a 10-ft firebreak, may be allowed. MDE burn permit required for larger fires.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Setback | 15 feet from structures and lines | - |
| Fuel | Clean dry wood or gas only | Dry natural wood only |
| Extinguishment | Hose or extinguisher required nearby | - |
| Unattended | Prohibited | - |
| Burn Bans | County may issue during drought | - |
| Max Fire Size | - | 3-foot diameter |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguishing equipment required |
| Contact | - | Rockville 311 / (240) 314-8000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Gaithersburg backyard?
Yes. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures, property lines, and combustible materials. Only clean dry wood or gas fuel is allowed. Keep an extinguishment method nearby and never leave it unattended.
Are gas fire pits allowed in Gaithersburg?
Yes. Gas fire pits using natural gas or propane are permitted and may have reduced setback requirements compared to wood-burning pits.
Rockville FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Rockville?
Recreational fires in Rockville follow Montgomery County open burning rules. Fires using dry natural wood (max 3 ft diameter), attended by an adult, with a 10-ft firebreak, may be allowed. MDE burn permit required for larger fires.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Rockville?
Max Fire Size: 3-foot diameter. Fuel: Dry natural wood only. Attendance: Adult with extinguishing equipment required.
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