Backyard recreational fires in Wake County are governed by NC Fire Prevention Code §307.4.2 (adopted by Wake County Code Ch. 72): pile size capped at 3 ft diameter x 2 ft height, fuel limited to seasoned wood (not yard debris or trash), and the fire must be at least 25 feet from any combustible structure. No permit is required, but the Fire Code Official can order it extinguished for objectionable smoke or hazardous conditions (NCFC §307.3).
Inside Raleigh, the Fire Marshal interprets the code to allow only "fires used for heating or cooking" — burning trash, leaves, yard clippings, or accelerants is prohibited. Portable outdoor fireplaces (chimineas, store-bought fire pits) follow §307.4.3 — keep 15 feet from structures, use per manufacturer instructions. Wake County Fire Services advises against backyard fires during high winds and during any burn ban (such as the March 2026 statewide ban). A constantly attended adult and a means of immediate extinguishment (garden hose, fire extinguisher) are required during the fire (§307.5). Fires may be ordered extinguished if they create "objectionable odors or smoke" or hazardous conditions (NCFC §307.3).
Violations of NCFC §307 are punishable under NCGS §143-138(j) and NCFC §109 as a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine up to $500 per occurrence; the Fire Code Official can also issue immediate-extinguish orders. Violations during a burn ban add a separate Class 3 charge under NCGS §106-941.
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