Outdoor Burning: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Open burning in Phoenix requires an operational permit from the Phoenix Fire Department under Fire Code section 105.5.36, and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department separately bans burning household trash and yard waste year-round and prohibits all outdoor wood burning on declared No Burn Days under Rule 314.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe prohibits open burning within city limits due to Maricopa County air quality regulations. Recreational fires in approved fire pits may be allowed under specific conditions, but burning of trash, leaves, and yard waste is banned year-round.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Phoenix Fire Code section 105.5.36 (permit) | - |
| Permitting body | Phoenix Fire Department, Fire Prevention | - |
| County rule | Maricopa County Rule 314 / Ordinance P-26 | - |
| Banned year-round | Burning household trash and yard waste | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited in Tempe |
| Authority | - | Maricopa County AQMD Rule 314 |
| Recreational Fires | - | Allowed in approved fire pits |
| No-Burn Days | - | Issued during high pollution events |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Do I need a permit to burn outdoors in Phoenix?
Yes. Fire Code section 105.5.36 requires an operational permit to kindle or maintain an open fire or bonfire on any public or private ground in Phoenix. Only a qualifying recreational fire is exempt from the permit.
Can I burn leaves, branches, or trash in my yard?
No. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department prohibits burning household waste and yard waste like tree trimmings year-round under Rule 314, regardless of any Phoenix permit.
What is a No Burn Day?
A day declared by the Maricopa County Air Quality Department when air pollution is elevated. On a No Burn Day, burning anything other than gaseous fuels in a fireplace, woodstove, chiminea, or outdoor pit is prohibited. Call 602-506-6400 or use the Clean Air mobile app to check.
Tempe FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Tempe?
No. Open burning of trash, leaves, and yard waste is prohibited in Tempe under Maricopa County air quality rules.
Are bonfires allowed in Tempe?
Large open fires are prohibited. Small recreational fires in approved fire pits using clean fuels may be permitted, but check for no-burn advisories.
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