Backyard Fires: Oak Lawn vs Orland Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Oak Lawn, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Oak Lawn.
Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn strictly regulates backyard fires. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers are allowed only with propane/natural gas or clean dry wood, must be at least 25 feet from structures, attended at all times, and extinguished by 11:00 PM.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park permits small recreational fires in approved fire pits or chimineas with restrictions: maximum 3-foot diameter, only seasoned firewood (no yard waste, leaves, or trash), at least 25 feet from any structure, and constant adult supervision. The Orland Fire Protection District enforces fire safety rules.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oak Lawn | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Fire Pit Setback | 25 ft (15 ft UL-listed) | - |
| Fuel | Clean wood or gas only | - |
| Curfew | Extinguished by 11 PM | - |
| Fine Range | $250–$1,500 | $100–$500 (plus IEPA risk) |
| Max Pit Size | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Seasoned firewood only |
| Prohibited | - | Yard waste, leaves, trash, treated wood |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Oak Lawn IL?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Yard waste must be bagged for Village collection.
How far must a fire pit be from my house in Oak Lawn?
At least 25 feet from structures, fences, and combustibles — or 15 feet for UL-listed manufactured units under IFC 307.
When do backyard fires have to be out in Oak Lawn?
Recreational fires must be fully extinguished by 11:00 PM and attended by an adult at all times while burning.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Orland Park IL?
Yes — in an approved fire pit no larger than 3 feet in diameter, at least 25 feet from any structure, burning only seasoned firewood with adult supervision.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Orland Park?
No. Burning leaves, yard waste, garbage, and treated wood is prohibited. Use the Village's yard waste collection program instead.
Who enforces backyard fire rules in Orland Park?
The Orland Fire Protection District at (708) 349-0074 enforces fire safety, with the Village handling code citations. Call OFPD before any large outdoor fire.
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