Charlotte, NC Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Charlotte Fire Department enforces NC Fire Code §307 governing open burning and recreational fires. The key distinctions:

Recreational fires - small fires in portable fire pits, chimineas, or permanent masonry pits fueled by clean seasoned wood or commercial logs - are allowed under §307.4.2 with these requirements: - Pile size: 3 feet or less in diameter, 2 feet or less in height - Setback: 15 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material - 25 foot setback if the fire pile exceeds recreational size - Constant adult attendance with means of extinguishment (hose, bucket, extinguisher) - No burning during high wind, red flag warnings, or local burn bans - Only clean wood fuels - no leaves, trash, plastic, treated lumber, or construction debris

Open burning of yard waste (leaves, brush, trimmings) is prohibited within Charlotte city limits under Mecklenburg County Air Quality §2.0535, which applies to the entire county. Residents must bag yard waste for pickup by Solid Waste Services or haul to a county yard waste drop-off. In Mecklenburg County outside Charlotte corporate limits, small piles may be burned with a Charlotte Fire Department burn permit and only between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Grills and barbecues (propane, charcoal, pellet) are exempt from the fire pit rules but must be 10 feet from combustible walls for multi-family dwellings per NC Fire Code §308.1.4. HOAs with townhome or condo buildings often prohibit charcoal and wood-fuel grills on balconies entirely.

Violations are enforceable by CFD fire inspectors and can result in civil penalties of $100-$500 per incident. Red flag days are broadcast via CFD social media and local media.