Surprise allows recreational backyard fires in approved fire pits and chimineas. Open burning of trash, yard waste, and debris is prohibited. Fires must be attended at all times and kept to a manageable size. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department may issue no-burn days.
Recreational fires in Surprise are permitted in contained fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces that meet city code requirements. Fires must be kept small (typically 3 feet or less in diameter), attended at all times, and have a means of extinguishment readily available. Open burning of trash, leaves, yard waste, and construction debris is prohibited within city limits. The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) issues no-burn advisories during poor air quality periods, typically in winter months, which apply throughout Maricopa County including Surprise. Cooking fires in BBQ grills and smokers are permitted. Propane and natural gas fire features are generally allowed with fewer restrictions than wood-burning. Contact Surprise Fire-Medical at (623) 222-4810 for fire safety questions.
Open burning of prohibited materials results in citations from Surprise Fire-Medical and potential MCAQD fines. Burning during no-burn days violates county air quality rules. First-offense fines typically start at $250.
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