Backyard Fires: Milwaukee vs West Allis
How do backyard fires rules compare between Milwaukee, WI and West Allis, WI?
West Allis has fewer restrictions than Milwaukee.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee County
Milwaukee bans open burning of yard waste and rubbish. Only small recreational fires in approved portable fire pits with seasoned wood are allowed under Chapter 214.
View full Milwaukee rules →West Allis, WI
Milwaukee County
There is no Milwaukee County ordinance for backyard recreational fires; those follow each city, village, or town fire code plus DNR open-burning rules. On county parks, Ordinance 47.05(4) allows a fire only in a place the county provides.
View full West Allis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Milwaukee | West Allis |
|---|---|---|
| Yard Waste Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Recreational Fires | Approved pits only | - |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | - |
| First Fine | $200 | - |
| County-wide backyard rule | - | None - municipal + DNR |
| County parks | - | Fire only in provided places |
| Park cooking fires | - | Enclosed metal containers |
| Park penalty | - | Up to $100, 90 days default |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Milwaukee FAQ
West Allis FAQ
Can I have a campfire in my Milwaukee County backyard?
That is decided by your city, village, or town fire code and DNR open-burning rules, not the county. Check your municipal ordinance for setbacks and permits.
Are campfires allowed in Milwaukee County parks?
No loose campfires. Ordinance 47.05(4) permits a fire only in places provided therefor, and park cooking must use enclosed metal grills with coals put in Hot Coals bins.
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