Maricopa, AZ Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

A small backyard fire for warmth, ambiance, or cooking is permitted in the City of Maricopa as a recreational fire. Pinal County Air Quality exempts recreational fires used for cooking or warmth from any burn permit as long as the fuel area is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. The city adopts the 2024 International Fire Code (City Code 15.05.120), and IFC Section 307 sets the safety rules: recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material; a manufactured portable outdoor fireplace must be at least 15 feet away (with an exception for one- and two-family dwellings); and a true bonfire must be at least 50 feet from structures. Only clean, dry wood or charcoal should be burned - burning leaves, brush, construction debris, or household trash is not a recreational fire and requires a separate Pinal County open-burn permit (which is unavailable May 1 through September 30). Open burning is prohibited whenever weather or local conditions make fires hazardous, and the fire code official may order any backyard fire extinguished. Practical safety steps recommended by the Maricopa Fire/Medical Department: keep a hose or extinguisher close, never leave the fire unattended, keep it away from fences and overhanging branches, and drown the ashes before going inside.