Pittsburgh, PA Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Recreational fires in Pittsburgh and all of Allegheny County are governed by ACHD open burning regulations. Fires may not exceed 3 feet wide by 3 feet long by 2 feet high. They must be located at least 15 feet from the nearest dwelling, property line, roadway, sidewalk, or other public access area. Only clean wood, propane, natural gas, commercially available fire logs, paraffin logs, or wood pellets may be burned. Paper or commercial smokeless fire starters are permitted only for igniting the fire. Burning of trash, yard waste, leaves, construction debris, treated or painted lumber, rubber, or plastics is strictly prohibited. All wood-burning activity is banned on ACHD Air Quality Action Days and during Watch or Warning conditions in the Mon Valley, with an exception for commercial food preparation. Violations may be reported to the ACHD 24-Hour Complaint Line at (412) 687-2243. Local Pittsburgh ordinances may impose additional restrictions. Pittsburgh's dense urban neighborhoods and narrow lot widths often make the 15-foot setback difficult to achieve, effectively limiting recreational fires to properties with larger yards.