Backyard Fires: Mesa vs Surprise
How do backyard fires rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Mesa and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa allows recreational backyard fires under International Fire Code Section 307, adopted in Mesa City Code Title 7. Recreational fires must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, be constantly attended with a 4-A fire extinguisher or other approved equipment on hand, and are prohibited on Maricopa County No-Burn Days.
View full Mesa rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Surprise allows recreational backyard fires in approved fire pits and chimineas. Open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris is prohibited. Fires must be attended at all times and kept to a manageable size. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department may issue no-burn days.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Code | IFC 307 (Mesa Title 7) | - |
| Setback from Combustibles | 25 ft minimum | - |
| Max Fuel Pile | 3 ft diameter x 2 ft high | - |
| Attendance | Constant until out | Must be supervised at all times |
| Extinguisher | 4-A portable required | - |
| No-Burn Days | Maricopa County AQD | MCAQD seasonal advisories |
| State Statute | ARS 49-501 | - |
| Fire Prevention | 480-644-2622 | - |
| Contained Fires | - | Permitted in fire pits and chimineas |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited — no trash or yard waste |
| Surprise Fire | - | (623) 222-4810 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Mesa?
Yes, with conditions. Under IFC Section 307 (adopted in Mesa City Code Title 7), a recreational fire may have a fuel area up to 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and must be constantly attended with a 4-A fire extinguisher or equivalent on hand. Wood-burning fires are also banned on Maricopa County No-Burn Days. Gas fire pits are generally exempt from no-burn restrictions.
What can I not burn in my Mesa backyard fire?
Recreational fires may only burn clean, seasoned firewood or other approved fuels. Arizona ARS 49-501 prohibits burning household trash, treated wood, plastics, tires, and most yard waste anywhere in the state, with civil penalties up to $1,000 per day. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department also bans all wood burning on No-Burn Days. Call Mesa Fire and Medical Prevention at 480-644-2622 with questions.
Surprise FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Surprise backyard?
Yes. Contained fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces are permitted. Fires must be attended and kept to a manageable size with extinguishment means nearby.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Surprise?
No. Open burning of trash, leaves, yard waste, and debris is prohibited within Surprise city limits.
What are no-burn days?
Maricopa County Air Quality Department issues no-burn advisories during poor air quality periods, typically in winter. Wood-burning is restricted on these days throughout the county.
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