Backyard recreational fires in Tucson must be in a manufactured fire pit, chiminea, or similar appliance under 3 feet in diameter, located at least 15 feet from any structure or combustible vegetation, and attended by an adult with a water source available. Fires must be extinguished by 11 PM.
Tucson Fire enforces International Fire Code Section 307 for recreational fires. Only seasoned firewood, charcoal, or propane fuel is permitted. Burning trash, treated wood, or yard debris is prohibited. Fire pits must not be operated during burn bans or when Pima DEQ issues a high-pollution advisory. The 15-foot clearance can be reduced to 5 feet for small contained appliances such as chimineas under 2 feet in diameter. HOAs in Sabino Canyon, Rancho Vistoso, and foothill communities often impose stricter rules.
Violations start at 250 dollars and increase to 1,000 dollars for repeat offenses. If the fire escapes and causes brush damage, the owner may be billed for suppression costs ranging into the thousands.
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