Rockville, MD Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

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.