Backyard Fires: Live Oak vs San Antonio
How do backyard fires rules compare between Live Oak, TX and San Antonio, TX?
Live Oak and San Antonio have similar restriction levels.
Live Oak, TX
Bexar County
Backyard recreational fires in approved pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces are allowed in Live Oak under IFC 307.4.2. Clearance, attendance, and fuel rules apply. Fires pause during Bexar County burn bans.
View full Live Oak rules →San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
Backyard fires in unincorporated Bexar County must comply with TCEQ 30 TAC 111.219 and any active burn ban. San Antonio allows recreational fires in approved appliances with 15-foot structure clearance.
View full San Antonio rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Live Oak | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Devices | Pits, chimineas, fire tables, outdoor fireplaces | - |
| Wood Clearance | 25 feet | - |
| Gas Clearance | 10 feet per manufacturer listing | - |
| Fuel Allowed | Seasoned wood, charcoal, gas (no yard waste) | - |
| Burn Ban Effect | Wood fires suspended, gas usually allowed | - |
| TCEQ exception | - | 30 TAC 111.219 cooking/recreational |
| San Antonio pit max | - | 3 feet diameter, 2 feet height |
| Structure clearance | - | 15 feet portable, 25 feet open |
| Burn ban impact | - | Wood fires prohibited |
| Propane exception | - | Usually allowed during burn bans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Live Oak FAQ
Can I roast marshmallows over a backyard fire in Live Oak?
Yes. Recreational cooking or warming fires in an approved pit or fireplace are allowed with 25 feet clearance, adult supervision, and approved fuel.
Does a propane fire table still need 25 feet clearance?
No. Listed gas fire features follow the manufacturer clearance, typically 10 feet from combustibles. They are also usually exempt from solid-fuel burn bans.
San Antonio FAQ
Can I use my backyard fire pit during a burn ban in Bexar County?
Wood-burning fire pits are generally prohibited during an active burn ban. Propane fire tables with a shutoff valve are typically permitted because they are enclosed-flame appliances.
How far from my house does a fire pit need to be?
San Antonio Fire Code requires 15 feet from any structure for portable outdoor fireplaces and 25 feet for open recreational fires. Check nonmetallic surfaces beneath as well.
Can my HOA ban fire pits?
Yes. HOA covenants may prohibit wood-burning pits regardless of government rules. Review your CCRs; many Bexar subdivisions restrict pits to gas-only.
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