Toledo allows small recreational backyard fires for warmth and cooking under Ohio Fire Code 307.4, limited to 3 feet in diameter with 25 feet of clearance from structures. Only clean seasoned wood is permitted; yard waste burning is banned.
Backyard fires in Toledo are regulated by Ohio Fire Code Section 307.4 (OAC 1301:7-7-03) and enforced by Toledo Fire & Rescue. Permitted fires include small recreational bonfires, cooking fires, and portable fire pits using clean, dry, seasoned firewood or commercial manufactured logs. The fire must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, located at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, or property line, and constantly attended by an adult. A garden hose or water source must be readily available. Burning of leaves, yard clippings, household trash, treated wood, plastic, or construction debris is prohibited under Ohio EPA OAC 3745-19. Fires producing excessive or offensive smoke are a nuisance and may be ordered extinguished. Red-flag weather conditions such as high winds may prompt temporary burn prohibitions.
Fire department may order immediate extinguishment. Citations may be issued for oversized fires, illegal materials, or unattended fires. Ohio EPA may assess separate fines for illegal yard-waste burning.
See how Toledo's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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