Tomball permits small recreational fires in backyards under the International Fire Code as adopted locally. Portable fire bowls, chimineas, and cooking fires must follow setback and attendance requirements enforced by the Tomball Fire Marshal.
The City of Tomball regulates recreational fires under the International Fire Code as adopted by ordinance. Small outdoor fires for cooking or warmth in portable containers such as chimineas, fire bowls, and charcoal grills are permitted in rear yards provided they are attended at all times and located at least 15 feet from structures, property lines, and combustible materials. Fires must be kept to a manageable size and extinguished immediately if wind conditions create a hazard. Burning of trash, yard waste, lumber, or treated wood is prohibited within city limits. Propane and natural gas appliances designed for outdoor use are generally permitted without additional restrictions beyond manufacturer clearances. The Tomball Fire Marshal's Office enforces fire safety regulations. Contact Development Services at (281) 290-1012 for questions.
Violations of fire safety rules may result in citations and fines through Tomball Municipal Court. The Fire Marshal may order immediate extinguishment of any fire deemed a hazard. Burning prohibited materials can result in fines up to $2,000 per offense.
Tomball, TX
Tomball regulates construction activity through its nuisance ordinance. Construction in residential areas is generally permitted Monday through Saturday duri...
Tomball, TX
Tomball regulates noise under Chapter 18, Article IV of its Code of Ordinances. In 2024, the city adopted Ordinance 2024-17 which deleted Section 18-192 (Max...
Tomball, TX
Tomball restricts the parking of large commercial vehicles in residential neighborhoods. Vehicles exceeding certain size and weight thresholds, including sem...
Tomball, TX
Tomball restricts parking and storage of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. RVs and boats must be stored behind the front build...
Tomball, TX
Tomball requires vehicles to be parked on improved surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on grass, dirt, or unimproved surfaces in front ya...
Tomball, TX
Tomball regulates on-street parking throughout the city. Vehicles may not be parked on public streets for more than 72 consecutive hours. Parking is prohibit...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle backyard fires.
See how Tomball's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.