Open burning of yard waste is prohibited inside Fort Worth city limits, but contained recreational fires in approved pits under three feet across and using clean wood are allowed.
Fort Worth follows the International Fire Code as adopted in the City Code, plus Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) open-burn rules. Open burning of leaves, brush, or household trash is banned inside city limits. Recreational fires are allowed if the fuel pile is no larger than three feet in diameter and two feet tall, the fire is at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and only clean dry seasoned wood, charcoal, or manufactured fire logs are burned. Chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and UL-listed fire pits on patios are allowed closer to a home, typically 15 feet. A responsible adult with a water source or extinguisher must be present until the fire is fully out. During Tarrant County burn bans, which are common in summer drought, even recreational fires may be suspended by the Fort Worth Fire Marshal.
Illegal open burning is a Class C misdemeanor carrying fines up to $500, plus potential TCEQ enforcement. Violations during a declared burn ban can escalate to fines up to $2,000 per occurrence. The Fire Department can also bill for suppression costs if a fire escapes.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tarrant County.
See how other cities in Tarrant County handle backyard fires.
See how Fort Worth's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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