Eagan, MN Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Eagan City Code Chapter 10, Section 10.40, Subdivision 6 governs backyard recreational fires. A free recreational fire permit, valid through December 31 and renewed annually, is required before any fire is lit. The fire may not exceed three feet wide, three feet long, or three feet high, and the pit or container must be non-combustible and completely surrounded by non-combustible materials. It must be located at least 25 feet from any home or flammable structure (deck, fence, shed) and at least 10 feet from all property lines, and may not be used on wood, composite, or flammable decks or patios. Only cut and split, clean, unpainted, untreated wood or cooking charcoal may be burned. Prohibited materials include chemically treated fireplace logs; treated, painted, stained, or glued woods such as plywood or particleboard; leaves (green or dry); grass clippings; and garden vegetation. A person age 18 or older must attend the fire at all times until it is fully extinguished, a working garden hose and/or an approved fire extinguisher must be within arm's reach, and a fire may not be lit or continued if winds exceed 15 mph. Two or more violations in 12 months can result in permit revocation by the Fire Chief.