San Antonio, TX Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

Recreational backyard fires occupy a narrow legal lane in Bexar County. In unincorporated areas, 30 TAC 111.209 governs general open burning, while 30 TAC 111.219 provides limited exceptions for firefighter training, prescribed burns, and cooking fires. A true recreational fire (small, warmth or ambience only, under 3 feet diameter, using clean wood) is often treated as permissible outside burn ban periods but is banned during an active county burn ban under Gov Code 418.108. Portable fire pits, chimineas, and pellet fire bowls are functionally recreational fires. The City of San Antonio Fire Code (based on IFC with amendments) allows recreational fires of up to 3 feet diameter and 2 feet height, at least 25 feet from any structure, in an approved appliance at least 15 feet from a structure, with dry non-treated fuel, continuous attendance, and a means of extinguishment (hose or fire extinguisher). Portable outdoor fireplaces must be 15 feet from structures. Fire-resistant surfaces (concrete, stone, bare earth) are required beneath and around the pit. Roasting and cooking fires receive the same treatment and may be exempt from burn bans if in an approved appliance. HOAs in Cibolo Canyons, Alamo Ranch, and similar master-planned communities often restrict wood-burning fire pits in favor of propane fire tables, regardless of city or county rules.