Small recreational backyard fires are allowed without a permit in Yellowstone County if the fire pit is 48 inches or less and used only for cooking or recreation. Burn only natural vegetation, never leave the fire unattended, and stop when fire restrictions are in effect.
Yellowstone County DES treats recreational backyard fires the same as fire pits: no burn permit is needed if the fire 'Has a diameter of 48 inches or less' and 'Is only being used to cook food/recreationally.' Anything larger, or used to burn debris, needs an activated open-burning permit. You must keep 'enough water, hand tools/equipment, and people to keep your fire under control,' and never leave until the fire is completely out. Prohibited materials (plastics, treated wood, garbage, tires, etc.) may never be burned. During Stage 1 fire restrictions, even recreational fires outside a permanent fire ring may be prohibited countywide. Cities like Billings may impose additional limits within municipal limits.
An unpermitted or unsafe backyard fire is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $500 and/or 6 months in jail; a fire that escapes can trigger felony arson penalties.
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