Recreational backyard fires in unincorporated Palm Beach County are allowed when they meet NFPA 1 §10.11 setbacks (25 feet from structures), use only clean wood or LP fuel, and remain attended. Larger debris fires require Florida Forest Service authorization.
PBC Fire Rescue distinguishes recreational fires (under 3 feet in diameter, under 2 feet tall, clean fuel) from open burning. Recreational fires need no permit but must meet NFPA 1 §10.11.6 distances: 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, 15 feet for portable outdoor fireplaces, and never under tree canopy or near pool screen enclosures. Burning of yard waste, leaves, palm fronds, or trash in a backyard fire pit is prohibited; that activity falls under FAC 5I-2 open burning rules administered by FFS. PBC Air Pollution Control Office enforces against nuisance smoke complaints under PBC Code Ch. 22. During the dry season or any declared burn ban, even small recreational fires may be suspended. Coastal homes near Atlantic dunes should also follow Florida DEP coastal construction control line restrictions.
Order to extinguish; nuisance smoke citations under PBC Code Ch. 22 up to 500 dollars; fire department response cost recovery if fire escapes.
See how Palm Beach County's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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