Recreational fire pits are allowed under Montgomery County fire code with a 15-foot setback from structures. Yard waste burning is prohibited. Fires must be attended at all times.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in Takoma Park under Montgomery County fire code (Chapter 22) and the International Fire Code as adopted by the county. Fires must be contained in a commercially manufactured or masonry fire pit, located at least 15 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material. Fires must be attended at all times and a means of extinguishment (garden hose or fire extinguisher) must be readily available. Only clean, dry firewood or manufactured fire logs may be burned -- no yard waste, trash, construction debris, or treated lumber. Open burning of leaves and yard debris is prohibited under both Montgomery County and Maryland Department of the Environment regulations. The county fire marshal may impose burn bans during drought or high-wind conditions. Charcoal grills and gas grills are permitted on patios and decks but propane tanks over 1 pound must be stored outdoors. Given Takoma Park's dense lot pattern, the 15-foot setback can be challenging on smaller properties.
Open burning violation: Montgomery County citation. Unattended fire: fire code citation. Burn ban violation: potential criminal charge under county code.
See how other cities in Montgomery County handle backyard fires.
See how Takoma Park's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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