Berwyn, IL Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Berwyn's open burning ban in § 1610.03 of the Berwyn Code of Ordinances carves out recreational campfires in division (F), and division (G) supplies the definitions that decide what counts. A recreational campfire is a safely conducted and controlled outdoor fire used for comfort or relaxation. It must burn approved wood in an approved container, in a safe and controlled manner.

The container definition is narrow. An approved container is a commercially manufactured device specifically designed, intended, advertised and used for recreational campfires, such as chimneas and outdoor fireplaces. It must sit above ground and can never be built into the ground or located below grade, so a pit dug into the yard does not qualify, and a device you build yourself does not fit the phrase commercially manufactured. Approved wood is seasoned dry firewood of dimensions that fit safely within the container. It excludes green or fresh vegetation, leaves, grass, bushes, roots, construction materials such as plywood and pressure-treated wood, and any material that produces excessive smoke, cinders or other emissions typical of non-seasoned wood.

Division (F) then lists six operating conditions. An adult aged 18 or older must control and attend the fire at all times. A portable fire extinguisher rated at least 4-A, or sand, dirt or water in enough quantity, must be ready for immediate use. The fire cannot create excessive flames, flying cinders or smoke. It must be at least 15 feet from any structure. It cannot emit offensive or objectionable smoke or odors or be used when other circumstances make fires hazardous. It can never be used for waste disposal.

Unlike bonfires under division (D) and land-management burns under division (E), which need a Fire Prevention Bureau permit, division (F) names no permit for a recreational campfire.