Louisville, KY Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

APCD Regulation 1.07 prohibits most open burning within Jefferson County, with narrow exceptions for recreational fires, ceremonial fires, and certain agricultural and forestry operations. Recreational fires must be in an approved fire pit, chiminea, or similar device, typically no more than 3 feet in diameter, using only clean dry seasoned wood or manufactured firelogs. Burning of yard waste, leaves, construction debris, household trash, treated wood, tires, and painted materials is prohibited and carries APCD civil penalties. Fire pits must be placed a safe distance from structures (typically 25 feet from any structure or combustible material) and must be attended at all times with a means of extinguishment available. The Louisville Fire Department may order extinguishment of any fire that creates a nuisance, generates excessive smoke, or poses a safety risk regardless of whether it otherwise complies with APCD rules. Burn bans issued by the Kentucky Division of Forestry during spring and fall forest fire hazard seasons also apply to backyard recreational burning within 150 feet of woodland.