Laredo allows small backyard recreational fires for cooking and warmth when contained, under 3 feet diameter, 25 feet from structures, and attended. Prohibited during Webb County burn bans.
Backyard recreational fires in Laredo are governed by International Fire Code Section 307 as adopted in City Code Chapter 12. Permitted fires include small warming fires, cooking fires in barbecue grills or smokers, chimineas, and contained fire pits not exceeding 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in pile height. The fire must be located at least 25 feet from any structure, fence line, or combustible material and must be attended continuously by a responsible adult. Only clean seasoned wood, charcoal, or approved fuels may be burned; trash, leaves, construction debris, and treated wood are prohibited. A water source, garden hose, or extinguisher must be immediately available. When the Laredo Fire Department or Webb County issues a burn ban, wood-burning backyard fires are prohibited; gas and propane devices remain legal. Neighbors affected by smoke can file a nuisance complaint and the Fire Department may order the fire extinguished.
Unattended or oversized fires: up to 500 dollars. Burning during burn ban: 500 dollars plus extinguish order. Smoke nuisance: order to extinguish and potential citation.
See how Laredo's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.