Milwaukee bans open burning of yard waste and rubbish. Only small recreational fires in approved portable fire pits with seasoned wood are allowed under Chapter 214.
Milwaukee Code of Ordinances Chapter 214 prohibits open burning of leaves, brush, rubbish, and construction debris within city limits. Recreational fires are permitted only in manufactured fire pits, chimineas, or masonry fireplaces using clean seasoned firewood or charcoal. Fires must be at least 15 feet from any structure, attended at all times by an adult, and extinguished completely before leaving. Milwaukee Fire Department can order fires extinguished during high wind or drought advisories. Fireworks are banned under Chapter 105 except for permitted public displays.
Open burning citations start at $200 per occurrence, escalating to $1,000 for repeat offenses. Illegal fires are extinguished at owner expense.
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