Small backyard recreational fires are allowed under the adopted International Fire Code if the fuel pile stays 3 feet wide and 2 feet high or less, sits at least 25 feet from anything combustible, is constantly attended, and has a hose or extinguisher nearby. Only clean firewood may be burned,
St. Clair County's adopted fire code defines a recreational fire as an outdoor fire with a total fuel area no greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, used for pleasure, cooking, or warmth. These fires must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material and be attended until fully extinguished, with a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or dirt/sand ready. Burning garbage, leaves in a restricted area, or treated wood is not permitted. Inside incorporated municipalities, the local fire department may require a permit or impose stricter rules, and open burning can be suspended during hazardous or high-wind conditions.
The fire official may order any hazardous or non-compliant fire extinguished immediately; violations bring fire-code citations and penalties, and liability for any spread damage.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how St. Clair County's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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