Saint Paul, MN Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)

Unlike cities in wildfire-prone regions, Saint Paul does not impose mandatory brush clearance zones or defensible space requirements around structures. The city is a densely developed urban environment not classified as a Wildland-Urban Interface area. However, Saint Paul does regulate vegetation through property maintenance codes that require property owners to keep lots free of excessive weeds (over 8 inches), overgrown brush, and accumulated debris. Tall grass and weed violations are enforced through the Department of Safety and Inspections under the property maintenance chapter of the legislative code. The city may issue orders to cut and remove overgrowth, and if the owner fails to comply, the city can perform the work and assess the cost to the property tax statement. Minnesota Statute 88.02 authorizes the DNR to establish fire prevention measures and burning restrictions in wildfire-prone areas of the state, but these do not apply to Saint Paul's urban setting. Residents should still maintain clearance around outdoor fire pits per the recreational fire setback requirements.