Albuquerque permits small recreational fires in approved containers under AFR rules but prohibits open burning of trash, leaves, and brush year-round within city limits.
Under the adopted International Fire Code (Chapter 3) and ROA Chapter 14, open burning of yard waste, trash, and construction debris is prohibited within the Albuquerque city limits, year-round. Recreational fires are allowed only in UL-listed portable fire pits, chimineas, or masonry fire features, burning clean firewood or manufactured logs only. Fire diameter is limited to 3 feet, pile height to 2 feet, and the fire must be 25 feet from any structure. Charcoal and propane grills on combustible decks are restricted under the IFC, especially in multifamily buildings. Albuquerque frequently issues red-flag burn restrictions during spring wind season (March-June) suspending all outdoor fires regardless of container. AFR enforces with citations and immediate extinguishment authority.
Open burning violations are misdemeanors under ROA 14 with fines of $500-$1,000 per incident. Red-flag day violations can reach $2,500. Wildfire-causing fires may trigger full cost recovery for suppression.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Albuquerque's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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