Backyard recreational fires are allowed in St. Louis when contained in an approved pit, kept under 3 feet in diameter, set back 15 feet from structures, and fueled only with clean seasoned firewood.
St. Louis distinguishes between permitted recreational backyard fires and prohibited open burning. Recreational fires (warmth, cooking, ambiance) are allowed in metal pits, chimineas, or masonry fire rings no larger than 3 feet in diameter with flames under 2 feet. The fire must be 15 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material, attended by an adult at all times, and accompanied by a water source. Only clean, seasoned firewood or charcoal may be burned. Burning of leaves, grass clippings, brush, construction debris, or trash is prohibited under both City Code and MO DNR air quality rules for the St. Louis Ozone Nonattainment Area. Gas fire pits using LP or natural gas follow the same setback and attendance rules but produce less smoke and fewer nuisance complaints, which matter in dense neighborhoods like Soulard and The Hill where lots are small.
Improper fuel or unattended fire: $100-$500. MO DNR open burning violations can add civil penalties.
See how St. Louis's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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