Backyard recreational fires in Skokie are tightly restricted under Chapter 50. Wood fires must be in a manufactured fire pit, kept 15 feet from any structure, burn only clean seasoned wood, and be attended at all times. Gas-fueled patio fire features are freely permitted.
Skokie does not allow general open burning in backyards. A small recreational wood fire is permitted only if it is contained in a manufactured fire pit or chiminea, is located at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material, burns only clean seasoned firewood (no yard waste, trash, leaves, or treated wood), is attended by a responsible adult at all times, and has a water source or fire extinguisher immediately available. Fires must be fully extinguished at the end of the evening. The Skokie Fire Department may prohibit all outdoor wood fires during high-wind conditions or air-quality alerts. Gas and propane patio fire features are not open burning and are broadly permitted. Neighbors may file nuisance complaints if smoke drifts across property lines.
Non-compliant backyard fires may be ordered extinguished immediately by the Fire Department. Fines range from $100 to $750 for a first offense and up to $1,500 for repeated violations, plus potential nuisance liability for smoke drift.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle backyard fires.
See how Skokie's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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