Arvada, CO Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Chapter 42, Article III of the Arvada City Code defines a recreational fire in Section 42-111 as an outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish, not contained in an incinerator, with a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height, built for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes. The definition specifically covers a fire in a charcoal barbeque grill, a barbeque pit, a fire pit, a fixed permanent outdoor fireplace fueled by charcoal or wood, a barrel or drum fire, a portable outdoor fireplace (chiminea), or a tiki torch.

32 requires for open burning. That allowance narrows once the city manager, on the Arvada Fire Protection District's recommendation, declares Stage 1 fire restrictions or a Stage 2 fire ban under Sections 42-112 and 42-113. During a Stage 1 restriction, Section 42-114(a)(3) still permits a fire pit, tiki torch, or portable outdoor fireplace on private property, or a fire pit within a park, but only if it sits more than 30 feet from an undeveloped area, defined as unwatered, unmowed, or naturally vegetated land that poses a wildfire hazard.

Section 42-115's list of Stage 2 exceptions drops fire pits entirely, permitting only liquid- or gas-fueled appliances, UL-listed wood pellet grills, chain saws with spark arresters, and permitted hot work, meaning wood and charcoal recreational fires are unlawful anywhere in the city once a Stage 2 ban is declared.