Backyard fires in Chesapeake are allowed if kept small (3 ft wide, 2 ft high), contained in a proper pit, attended, and not burning trash. The Virginia 4 PM burn law applies Feb 15 to April 30.
Recreational backyard fires for cooking, warmth, or enjoyment are permitted in Chesapeake when contained in an approved fire pit, chiminea, or fire ring. Fuel is limited to clean, dry, seasoned firewood or charcoal, without accelerants. Fires over the size thresholds (3 ft wide, 2 ft high) become open burning and require different rules. Clearance of at least 15 feet from structures is required with an approved containment device, 25 feet without. An adult must attend the fire at all times with a garden hose, bucket, or extinguisher ready. Fires must be fully extinguished before the user leaves. During the Virginia 4 PM Burn Law window (Feb 15-April 30), even small fires near woodland are restricted before 4 PM. Neighbor smoke complaints can result in Fire Department response and required extinguishment.
First offense warning. Escalates to civil penalty and potential Class 3 misdemeanor if unsafe or unlawful.
See how Chesapeake's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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