Small backyard recreational fires (campfires) are allowed with clean firewood, kept 25 feet from structures. Larger bonfires are prohibited in Lima unless the Ohio EPA approves them in advance; when approved they cannot exceed 5 feet by 5 feet, must sit 50 feet from structures, and cannot burn longer than
Lima's Open Burning Guidelines split backyard fires into two categories. A recreational fire (campfire) is allowed: clean, seasoned firewood, stacked no larger than 2 feet high by 3 feet wide, at least 25 feet from any structure. A bonfire (a larger ceremonial fire) is prohibited unless approved in advance by the Ohio EPA; if approved, it must use clean seasoned firewood stacked no larger than 5 feet high by 5 feet wide, sit at least 50 feet from the nearest structure or combustible material, and burn no longer than 3 hours. Every fire must be constantly attended with an extinguisher, hose, dirt, sand, or water immediately available.
The fire code official may order any bonfire or campfire extinguished if it becomes hazardous or offensive - high winds, extreme dryness, irresponsible behavior, or legitimate neighbor objections. Unapproved bonfires draw EPA and fire enforcement.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Lima's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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