Backyard Fires: Sandy vs West Valley City
How do backyard fires rules compare between Sandy, UT and West Valley City, UT?
Sandy has fewer restrictions than West Valley City.
Sandy, UT
Salt Lake County
Backyard recreational fires in Sandy must comply with IFC §307: 15-foot structure setback, 3-foot max diameter, clean fuel only, and constant adult supervision with water source. Fires are prohibited on DAQ air action days and during east-bench wildfire restriction orders.
View full Sandy rules →West Valley City, UT
Salt Lake County
Backyard fires in West Valley City are limited to approved enclosed fire pits burning clean wood or propane. Open burning prohibited year-round. No burning on Utah DAQ red or yellow air action days. Violations: $150-$1,000 plus fire response costs.
View full West Valley City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Sandy | West Valley City |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Code | IFC §307 adopted | - |
| Max Size | 3 ft diameter recreational | - |
| Setback | 15 ft from structures | 25 ft from structures |
| Prohibited Fuel | Trash, leaves, treated wood | - |
| Supervision | Adult + water source always | - |
| Open Burning | - | Banned year-round |
| Max Pit Size | - | 3 ft diameter |
| No-Burn Days | - | Nov 1 - Mar 1 (inversions) |
| State Rule | - | UAC R307-202 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Sandy FAQ
Can my neighbor complain about my backyard fire smoke?
Yes. Persistent smoke drifting onto neighbor property can be a code nuisance. Utah DAQ rules also prohibit emissions creating a public nuisance.
Is charcoal grilling restricted during fire restrictions?
Typically yes for east-bench red-flag periods. Gas grills are usually permitted because they produce no embers. Check the active Fire Marshal order.
West Valley City FAQ
Can I burn leaves in my backyard in West Valley City?
No. Open burning of yard debris is prohibited year-round inside WVC. Bag leaves for curbside pickup or drop off at the Salt Lake Valley Landfill.
How do I know if today is a no-burn day?
Check air.utah.gov or the Utah DEQ AirNow app. On red or yellow air action days from November through February, solid-fuel fires (including fire pits) are banned.
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