Outdoor Burning: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
All open burning without a permit is prohibited in MoCo. Fire pits must be 25 feet from buildings and attended. Summer ban runs June 1 to August 31. Fines are $500 per day.
View full Rockville rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Outdoor burning is broadly prohibited in Takoma Park and Montgomery County without a permit. Banned items include household trash, tires, construction debris, leaves, and garden trimmings. Small recreational fires (under 3 feet) using dry natural wood are allowed with conditions. Violations carry fines of $500 per day under Montgomery County Code Chapter 3.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Code | MoCo Chapter 3, COMAR 26.11.07 | - |
| Permit | Required for all open burning | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from buildings | - |
| Summer Ban | June 1 - August 31 | - |
| Fine | $500 per day | $500 per day |
| General Rule | - | Prohibited without permit |
| Recreational Fire | - | Under 3 ft, dry wood only |
| Prohibited Items | - | Trash, leaves, tires, debris |
| Air Quality | - | No fires on Orange/Red days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rockville FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in Rockville?
Yes. Recreational fire pits are allowed if kept at least 25 feet from buildings, surrounded by 10 feet of clear space, constantly attended by an adult, and supplied with nearby extinguishing equipment. Only dry wood may be burned.
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Rockville?
No. Burning leaves, brush, trash, or yard waste is prohibited in Montgomery County. Use the city yard waste collection service or take materials to a county transfer station.
Are there seasonal restrictions on outdoor fires?
Yes. All open burning is banned from June 1 through August 31. Fires are also prohibited on Code Orange and Code Red air quality days year-round.
Takoma Park FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Takoma Park?
No. Burning leaves, garden trimmings, brush, and all plant material is prohibited in Montgomery County. Use the city curbside yard waste collection program instead.
What outdoor fires are allowed?
Small recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter using only dry natural wood, with an adult supervisor, extinguishing equipment nearby, and notification to Fire and Rescue at 240-683-6520. Not allowed on Code Orange or Red air quality days or when winds exceed 12 mph.
How do I report illegal burning?
Call non-emergency police at 301-270-1100 or dial 311 for Montgomery County. For emergencies, call 911.
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