Small backyard recreational fires for warmth or cooking are allowed in Cornelius subject to setback and attendance rules. Fires must not produce offensive smoke or endanger property.
Recreational backyard fires in Cornelius must be contained within an approved fire pit, chiminea, or portable fireplace. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure, kept under 3 feet in diameter, and attended at all times by a responsible adult with extinguishing means available. Burning of leaves, household trash, or construction debris is prohibited. Cornelius-Lemley Fire Rescue may respond to nuisance smoke complaints and order the fire extinguished.
Nuisance or unsafe fires may be ordered extinguished. Civil penalties begin at 100 dollars. Illegal debris burning triggers NC DEQ penalties up to 10,000 dollars.
See how other cities in Mecklenburg County handle backyard fires.
See how Cornelius's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.