Backyard recreational fires are allowed without a permit if you burn only clean firewood, keep the fire within 3 ft x 3 ft x 2 ft, stay 25 feet from anything combustible, and attend it until out. No burning May 1 through Sept. 30.
A backyard campfire, chiminea or portable fire pit is permitted in Chesterfield for recreation or cooking as long as it stays small and controlled. Use only clean wood, never trash, leaves or treated lumber. Limit the fire to 3 feet wide, 3 feet deep and 2 feet high, keep it 25 feet from structures, fences and vegetation, and never leave it unattended. Keep water or an extinguisher ready. Recreational burning is prohibited during fire season, May 1 through Sept. 30, and a neighbor's smoke complaint can trigger an order to put it out.
Leaving a fire unattended, exceeding size limits, or burning during the seasonal ban violates the county fire code and can bring misdemeanor penalties plus liability for any escaped fire.
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