Outdoor Burning: Scottsdale vs Surprise
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Scottsdale and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale regulates outdoor burning under Revised Code Chapter 36 (Fire Code) and Maricopa County ADEQ air quality rules. Open burning of yard waste and debris is generally prohibited. Recreational fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are permitted with size limitations and setback requirements. Fireworks are restricted to permissible consumer items during designated periods only.
View full Scottsdale rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited in Surprise. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department bans open burning in the PM-10 nonattainment area, which includes all of Surprise. Only recreational fires (fire pits, grills) are permitted under specific conditions.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Scottsdale | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Open Burning | Generally prohibited (city code and ADEQ rules) | Prohibited in Maricopa County |
| Fire Pits | Permitted with proper installation and clearances | - |
| Fireworks Ordinance | Ordinance No. 4157 | - |
| Fireworks Periods | April 25-May 6, May 20-July 6, Dec 10-Jan 3, Diwali | - |
| Fireworks Location | Private property only | - |
| Burn Bans | Maricopa County declares during high fire danger/air quality alerts | - |
| Recreational Fires | - | Grills and fire pits permitted |
| No-Burn Days | - | MCAQD issues seasonally |
| MCAQD | - | (602) 506-6010 |
| Surprise Fire | - | (623) 222-4810 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Scottsdale?
No. Open burning of yard waste and debris is prohibited under both city fire code and Maricopa County air quality regulations.
Are fire pits allowed in Scottsdale?
Yes. Gas, electric, or contained solid-fuel fire pits are permitted when properly installed with appropriate clearances. Installation may require a permit.
When can I use fireworks in Scottsdale?
Permissible consumer fireworks (ground-level items only) may be used on private property during designated periods: April 25-May 6, May 20-July 6, December 10-January 3, and during Diwali. Aerial fireworks are illegal statewide.
Surprise FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in Surprise?
No. Open burning of yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited throughout Maricopa County. Use city solid waste services for disposal.
Can I use my fireplace or fire pit?
Yes, except during MCAQD no-burn days. Recreational fires for cooking and warmth are permitted using clean-burning fuels.
What are no-burn days?
MCAQD issues no-burn advisories during poor air quality conditions, typically during winter inversions. Wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces must not be used on these days.
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