Keller, TX Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Backyard recreational fires in Keller are regulated as a subset of the citywide outdoor burning rule. A backyard fire is lawful if it is a small cooking fire in a grill or smoker, a commercially manufactured fire pit or chiminea in an approved non-combustible container, or a propane or natural gas fire feature. Fires must maintain a minimum 25-foot clearance from structures, fences, and combustible vegetation and be attended by an adult with a working garden hose or portable extinguisher at all times. Wood-burning recreational fires must use dry seasoned firewood, not yard waste, construction lumber, or treated wood. Open burning of leaves, brush, trash, or construction debris is prohibited year-round under both the city fire code and TCEQ rule 30 TAC 111.209 because Keller is in the DFW ozone nonattainment area. During a Tarrant County burn ban declared by the Commissioners Court under Texas Local Government Code Sec. 352.081, all wood-burning recreational fires are suspended. Propane and natural gas fire features with shut-off valves are generally exempt from burn bans because they are treated as controlled combustion appliances. HOAs in most Keller subdivisions layer additional restrictions on backyard fires, so homeowners should confirm covenants before installing fixed fire features.