Backyard Fires: Oak Park vs Tinley Park
How do backyard fires rules compare between Oak Park, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Oak Park and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park permits backyard recreational fires in portable fire bowls, chimineas, and similar contained fire devices under the same conditions as fire pits. Fires must be in approved containers, at least 15 feet from structures, attended at all times, and use only clean fuel. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are also permitted without restriction beyond standard safety practices.
View full Oak Park rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Tinley Park at single-family homes subject to International Fire Code limits. Fires must be in an approved container, under 3 feet by 2 feet, 25 feet from structures, burn only clean seasoned wood, and be constantly attended. Open burning of yard waste or trash is prohibited.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oak Park | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Containers | Chimineas, fire bowls, portable pits | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean wood, charcoal, fire logs only | - |
| Grills | Permitted for cooking | - |
| Contact | (708) 358-5600 Fire Dept. | (708) 444-5300 Fire Dept |
| Allowed | - | Recreational wood fires only |
| Size Limit | - | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft tall |
| Clearance | - | 25 ft from structures |
| Attendance | - | Constantly attended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Park FAQ
Can I have a chiminea in my backyard in Oak Park?
Yes. Chimineas and portable fire devices are permitted with at least 15 feet of clearance from structures and fences. Use only clean dry wood or manufactured fire logs, and keep the fire attended at all times.
Are charcoal grills allowed in Oak Park backyards?
Yes. Charcoal and gas grills for cooking are permitted without special restrictions. Use standard fire safety practices — keep grills away from structures and never leave hot coals unattended.
Can I burn wood in my backyard in Oak Park IL?
Only in an approved portable fire pit, fire bowl, or chiminea with proper setbacks. You may not burn wood in an open pile or burn yard waste, leaves, or trash under any circumstances.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Tinley Park IL?
Yes, recreational wood fires are allowed at one- and two-family homes in approved containers, under size limits, with 25-foot clearance, and only using clean seasoned firewood.
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire in Tinley Park?
No permit is needed for a code-compliant recreational fire at a single-family home. Questions can be directed to the Fire Department at (708) 444-5300.
What can't I burn in a Tinley Park backyard?
Leaves, yard waste, trash, construction debris, and any refuse are prohibited. Only clean seasoned firewood may be burned, and smoke must not create a neighbor nuisance.
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