Mesa allows recreational backyard fires under International Fire Code Section 307, adopted in Mesa City Code Title 7. Recreational fires must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, be constantly attended with a 4-A fire extinguisher or other approved equipment on hand, and are prohibited on Maricopa County No-Burn Days.
Mesa Fire and Medical regulates backyard recreational fires using IFC Section 307, adopted in Title 7 of the Mesa City Code. A recreational fire is an outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish, with a total fuel area no greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, used for cooking, warmth, or similar purposes. Recreational fires must not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, and conditions that could let the fire spread within 25 feet must be eliminated before ignition. Open burning, bonfires, and recreational fires must be constantly attended until completely extinguished, with at least one portable 4-A-rated fire extinguisher or equivalent approved equipment available. Fires are prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make them hazardous. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department issues No-Burn Days that prohibit all wood burning (including fire pits and outdoor fireplaces) for 24-hour periods starting at midnight; gas-fueled appliances are generally exempt. Garbage, treated wood, plastics, and yard waste may not be burned at any time under Arizona ARS 49-501. Questions go to Mesa Fire and Medical Prevention at 480-644-2622.
Burning closer than 25 feet to a structure, leaving a recreational fire unattended, exceeding the 3-foot diameter or 2-foot height fuel limit, burning on a Maricopa County No-Burn Day, or burning prohibited materials such as trash or treated wood violates IFC Section 307 (adopted under Mesa City Code Title 7) and Arizona ARS 49-501. Mesa Fire can order immediate extinguishment and pursue civil penalties; ARS 49-501 carries civil penalties up to $1,000 per day for unlawful open burning.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle backyard fires.
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