Outdoor Burning: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Open outdoor burning is generally prohibited in Gaithersburg under Montgomery County regulations and the Maryland Fire Prevention Code. Recreational fires in approved fire pits are the primary exception. Burning of yard waste, leaves, trash, and construction debris is banned. The county may issue additional burn bans during high-risk conditions.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Outdoor burning is broadly prohibited in Takoma Park and Montgomery County without a permit. Banned items include household trash, tires, construction debris, leaves, and garden trimmings. Small recreational fires (under 3 feet) using dry natural wood are allowed with conditions. Violations carry fines of $500 per day under Montgomery County Code Chapter 3.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Generally prohibited | - |
| Leaf/Yard Waste | Burning banned | - |
| Grills | 10 ft from structures | - |
| Exceptions | Fire pits, cooking grills, permitted ceremonies | - |
| Yard Waste | Curbside collection available | - |
| General Rule | - | Prohibited without permit |
| Recreational Fire | - | Under 3 ft, dry wood only |
| Prohibited Items | - | Trash, leaves, tires, debris |
| Air Quality | - | No fires on Orange/Red days |
| Fine | - | $500 per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Gaithersburg?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and debris is prohibited in Montgomery County. Use Gaithersburg curbside yard waste collection instead.
Can I use a charcoal grill on my apartment balcony in Gaithersburg?
Many apartment and condo communities prohibit charcoal grills on balconies. Check your building rules. Gas and charcoal grills should be at least 10 feet from structures.
Are campfires allowed in Gaithersburg?
Recreational fires in approved fire pits are permitted with proper setbacks and safety measures. Open ground campfires without a contained fire pit are generally not allowed.
Takoma Park FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Takoma Park?
No. Burning leaves, garden trimmings, brush, and all plant material is prohibited in Montgomery County. Use the city curbside yard waste collection program instead.
What outdoor fires are allowed?
Small recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter using only dry natural wood, with an adult supervisor, extinguishing equipment nearby, and notification to Fire and Rescue at 240-683-6520. Not allowed on Code Orange or Red air quality days or when winds exceed 12 mph.
How do I report illegal burning?
Call non-emergency police at 301-270-1100 or dial 311 for Montgomery County. For emergencies, call 911.
Compare other topics
See how Gaithersburg and Takoma Park compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool