Wood-burning fire pits and bonfires in Little Elm require a burn permit from the Fire Department. Gas/propane fire pits with enclosed flames may be exempt. Grills allowed without permit.
Little Elm Chapter 50 Fire Prevention requires a burn permit for any open burning on residential property. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and backyard bonfires all require a valid annual burn permit ($25 via the MyGov portal). Gas and propane fire pits with permanently enclosed flames and manufacturer safety shutoffs are generally exempt from the burn permit requirement, though residents should verify with the Fire Marshal. Charcoal and gas grills used for cooking are permitted without a burn permit. Fires must be attended by an adult at all times and must be fully extinguished before being left unattended. Fire pits must be placed a safe distance from structures, typically 15 feet minimum from any building or combustible material. Denton County burn bans prohibit all outdoor burning including permitted fire pits during declared ban periods. Wind speeds above 15 mph make conditions unsafe for open flames.
Unattended fire or burning without permit: citation plus extinguishment by fire department. Fine up to $2,000 for fire code violations.
See how other cities in Denton County handle backyard fires.
See how Little Elm's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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