Caldwell, ID Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Caldwell City Code 08-17-01 expressly permits outdoor fireplaces, barbecue pits and grills used in preparing food or for recreational purposes. Section 08-17-03 lists barbecues, cooking fires and recreational or ceremonial fires (campfires) as allowable without a permit, provided fire-extinguishing equipment such as a connected water hose is readily available. Under 08-17-03(4), any cooking or recreational fire that exceeds three feet (3') in diameter and two feet (2') in height requires a Caldwell Fire Department permit and may require an inspection first. Every backyard fire must be constantly attended by a competent adult until it is completely extinguished, and it must not create a hazard or nuisance. Section 08-17-05 prohibits backyard burning of household garbage, leaves, grass clippings, plastics, tires, painted or treated wood and other listed materials at all times, so a legal backyard fire must burn only clean wood or be a contained cooking fire. When a fire requires a permit, the 08-17-09 conditions apply: a twenty-five-foot (25') clearance from structures and combustibles, burning only between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M., and no burning when the Treasure Valley air quality index reaches 60 or winds exceed 10 mph.