Des Plaines permits small recreational backyard fires in approved containers (fire pits or chimineas) burning only clean, seasoned firewood. Open burning of leaves, brush, or refuse is prohibited under Cook County and Illinois EPA rules. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure and continuously attended.
Under Title 4 of the Des Plaines City Code and the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5/9), recreational backyard fires are permitted only in approved containers — manufactured fire pits, chimineas, or masonry pits with a spark screen — fueled by clean, seasoned firewood or commercial fire logs. Open burning of yard waste, leaves, grass clippings, brush, lumber, and refuse is prohibited throughout Cook County, where Illinois EPA open-burning rules are stricter than in downstate areas. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, or overhanging branch, kept under 3 feet in diameter, and continuously attended by an adult with a hose or extinguisher within reach. Fires must be fully extinguished before leaving unattended. The Des Plaines Fire Department may order any fire extinguished if it produces excessive smoke or threatens neighboring property; call (847) 391-5333.
Illegal open burning of leaves or refuse carries fines of $100 to $500 per occurrence under City code, with state Illinois EPA penalties up to $1,500 per day for repeat violations. Unattended or unsafe recreational fires can result in $100 to $500 fines plus cost recovery for any Fire Department response.
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