Rockville permits fire pits and chimineas without a permit if kept 20 feet from structures, burning only dry natural wood, with an adult supervising at all times.
The Rockville Fire Marshal publishes guidelines for fire pits, fire bowls, and chimineas that allow recreational fires without a permit when safety conditions are met. Portable fire devices must be placed at least 20 feet from any building or structure and at least 3 feet from mulch or combustible landscaping. A clear area of at least 3 feet in diameter must surround the appliance. Fire pits and chimineas must not be used on balconies or decks. Only dry, aged, natural wood may be burned; construction materials, brush, trash, and leaves are prohibited fuel sources. No flammable or combustible liquids may be used at any time. An adult at least 18 years old must supervise the fire and have fire-extinguishing equipment such as a water hose or bucket readily available. Fires are prohibited on Code Orange or Code Red Air Quality days. After use, hot ashes must sit for 24 hours, then be dampened, cooled, and stored in a dedicated metal ash container. Maryland DNR also restricts outdoor burning between 4 PM and midnight unless ground is snow-covered.
Violations of fire pit safety guidelines are enforced by the Rockville Fire Marshal. Unauthorized open burning may result in citations from Montgomery County DEP. Burning during declared burn bans is a misdemeanor under state law.
See how other cities in Montgomery County handle backyard fires.
See how Rockville's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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