Oak Lawn strictly regulates backyard fires. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers are allowed only with propane/natural gas or clean dry wood, must be at least 25 feet from structures, attended at all times, and extinguished by 11:00 PM.
Under the Village of Oak Lawn Fire Code (adopting the International Fire Code as amended) and consistent with Illinois EPA rules, open burning of leaves, yard waste, garbage, or construction debris is prohibited in the Village. Recreational fires are limited to approved fire pits, chimineas, or manufactured outdoor fireplaces burning clean seasoned wood or propane/natural gas — no treated wood, pallets, trash, or yard waste. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material (reducible to 15 feet for UL-listed units per IFC 307). Fires must be attended by an adult at all times, a means of extinguishment (hose or extinguisher) kept at hand, and the fire fully extinguished by 11:00 PM. Cooking fires in a BBQ grill are not subject to the 25-foot rule but cannot be used on combustible balconies of multi-family buildings. The Fire Chief may impose no-burn days during high-wind or poor air-quality conditions. Contact Oak Lawn Fire at (708) 499-7835.
Illegal open burning fines run $250 to $1,500 per occurrence. Repeat offenders face escalated penalties and referral to Illinois EPA. Fires left unattended or causing damage can trigger criminal reckless conduct charges in addition to fire code citations.
Oak Lawn, IL
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