Atlanta, GA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Atlanta, GA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Max fuel size
- 2 ft by 3 ft
- Clearance from structure
- 15 feet minimum
- Screening
- Required on all sides and top
- Attendance
- Must be constantly attended
- First-offense fine
- $500 minimum
Summary
Atlanta caps recreational fire pits at 2 by 3 feet, requires full screening, constant attendance, and 15 feet of clearance from any structure.
307.4.3.1 Fire Pit.
(1)The fuel size cannot exceed 2 feet by 3 feet.(2)The fire pit must have screening on all sides and the top.(3)The fire must be constantly attended.(4)The fire must be completely extinguished after use.(5)If there is objectionable smoke, the fire must be extinguished.(6)If wind direction causes the smoke to invade neighboring structures, the fire Shall be extinguished.(7)Fire extinguishing mediums must be provided, such as an appropriate fire extinguisher, a garden hose, dirt, or sand.(8)Fire pits must not be located within 15 feet of a structure.(9)Wood must be clean and without creosote. No construction materials or trash can be burned.(21)Paragraph 311.5 (Placards), Section 311 (Vacant Premises) in the Fire Prevention Code of the City of Atlanta shall read as follows: "311.5 Placards.
Full Breakdown
The Atlanta Fire Prevention Code exempts small recreational fire pits from the general open-burning ban, but only if you follow strict limits: fuel area no larger than 2 by 3 feet, screening on all sides and the top, someone attending at all times, and placement at least 15 feet from any structure. Only clean wood free of creosote may be burned, no construction debris or trash. You must have an extinguishing method on hand (extinguisher, hose, dirt, or sand) and put the fire out if it produces objectionable smoke or smoke drifts into a neighboring structure. All other outdoor burning, including construction and land-clearing debris, is prohibited citywide under the same code section.
Violations & Fines
Violations of the Fire Prevention Code carry fines starting at $500 for a first offense, $1,000 for a second, and $1,500 for a third, up to a $5,000 maximum, plus up to six months imprisonment or public-works duty; each 10 days a violation continues is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a fire pit in my Atlanta backyard?
What can I burn in an Atlanta fire pit?
What if my fire pit smoke bothers neighbors?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
How Atlanta compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Atlanta to another location·View the Georgia fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle fire pits & backyard fires.