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

Section 8-18-010(G) defines a recreational fire as an outdoor fire with a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height, used for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes, distinct from the broader category of portable and fixed outdoor fireplaces covered in 8-18-010(F), which includes wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and natural gas fireplaces. Section 8-18-020(E) permits a recreational fire under four conditions that must all be met: the fire cannot be running during an enacted Level 1 Fire Restriction or Level 2 Fire Ban, it must be attended at all times by an adult eighteen years or older, it must be positioned away from structures or combustible materials, and a fire extinguisher device or other mitigation source must be available nearby.

Because a Level 1 restriction bars building, maintaining, attending, or using any recreational campfire or open flame under 8-18-010(B)(1), a backyard fire pit that would otherwise qualify becomes unlawful the moment the police chief and North Metro Fire Rescue District declare that restriction, unless the resident secures a burn permit under 8-18-010(A). Outdoor cooking on charcoal, pellet, propane, natural gas, or electric grills and smokers at one- and two-family dwellings remains allowed even under Level 1, since it is defined separately from a recreational fire.

A violation of any part of Chapter 8-18, including an unattended or too-close recreational fire, is punishable under the Chapter 1-12 general penalty of a fine up to $2,650.00, up to 364 days in jail, or both.