Fire Regulations in York County, PA (2026)
3 rules for unincorporated York County, Pennsylvania.
Verified from official government sources
Fire Pits & Backyard Fires
Recreational backyard fires are allowed under DEP rules when used solely for cooking or recreation, but the specific setbacks and container rules come from your borough or township, not York County. A countywide burn ban overrides everything during dry spells.
Backyard Recreational Fires in York County, PA
Some Restrictions25 Pa. Code Sec. 129.14
The following types of burning are exempt... fires set solely for cooking food... fires set for recreational or ceremonial purposes.
Fireworks
Pennsylvania's Act 74 of 2022 governs fireworks statewide, not York County. Adults 18+ may buy and use consumer (1.4G) fireworks, but never within 150 feet of an occupied structure, on public property, or on another person's property without permission.
Consumer Fireworks in York County, PA
Some Restrictions72 P.S. Sec. 9404
A person who is at least 18 years of age... may purchase, possess, and use consumer fireworks. It is unlawful to ignite or discharge consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.
Outdoor Burning
Everyday open burning is regulated by your municipality and by PA DEP (25 Pa. Code Sec. 129.14). York County's Board of Commissioners can, and does, impose a temporary 30-day countywide burn ban during dry conditions that supersedes any municipal ordinance.
Outdoor / Open Burning in York County, PA
Some RestrictionsYork County Resolution 2023-29
Do hereby establish a temporary 30-day county-wide ban on any and all open burning. This burn ban shall supersede any municipal ordinance to the contrary.
All York County ordinances
See every category we cover for York County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
York County Ordinance Hub →