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Sumner County, TN Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Fire pit rules in Sumner County, TN, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.

Key Facts

Spark Screen
Half-inch mesh, no permit
Fuel
Clean dry firewood only
Gas Pits
Unrestricted
Burn Ban
Overrides recreational fires

Summary

Sumner County allows recreational backyard fires and fire pits across its suburban and rural neighborhoods. A contained fire under a spark screen needs no state burn permit, but drought burn bans and city fire codes still apply.

City-specific rules exist: Hendersonville has its own fire pits & backyard fires rules that differ from Sumner County's county-level regulations. If you live in Hendersonville, check the city-specific page instead.

Fires in containers/barrels with a 1/2" mesh screen cover

Source: Tennessee Code AnnotatedView official code

Full Breakdown

Recreational fires in a pit, chiminea, or barrel fitted with a half-inch mesh spark screen are permitted throughout Sumner County and do not require a Tennessee Division of Forestry burn permit. Keep flames well clear of structures, fences, and overhanging trees, attend the fire until it is fully out, and keep water or an extinguisher within reach. Burn only clean, dry firewood, never trash, leaves, or treated lumber. Gas and propane fire features are unrestricted. During a county drought burn ban, even recreational fires may be suspended. Gallatin, Hendersonville, and Portland add their own fire-code conditions inside city limits.

Violations & Fines

An escaping fire or burning prohibited materials can bring citations and cost-recovery for suppression. A fire that damages property may support reckless-burning charges under Tenn. Code Ann. §39-14-303. Burn-ban violations carry separate fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Sumner County?
No. A contained recreational fire under a half-inch spark screen needs no Tennessee Division of Forestry permit. Just avoid burn-ban days and keep well clear of structures.
Can I burn leaves in my fire pit?
No. Burn only clean, dry firewood. Leaves, yard waste, and household trash are prohibited, and burning debris also triggers TDF permit rules from October 15 to May 15.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Sumner County

Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsOutdoor BurningSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All Sumner County rules

How Sumner County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Sumner County to another location·View the Tennessee fire regulations overview

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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Cities Across Sumner County

Hendersonville, TN