Carmel, IN Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

While open burning is generally prohibited in Carmel, the City's burning ordinance permits recreational and cooking campfires that meet strict conditions. A ground campfire may be no larger than 3 feet by 3 feet by 2 feet and must sit within a stone or other non-combustible border. Any other (raised) campfire may be no larger than 5 feet by 5 feet by 5 feet and must use a non-combustible container that is sufficiently vented to induce combustion, with enclosed sides, a bottom, and a mesh covering with openings one-quarter of a square inch or less. Only commercial fire-starters and untreated wood may be burned. The fire must be at least 25 feet from combustible structures or objects, 100 feet from power lines, and 25 feet from neighboring properties' combustible items. Wind speed must be at least 5 mph and no more than 15 mph. The fire must be monitored constantly from ignition to extinguishment, with appropriate means of extinguishment present at all times, and must be put out if it creates dense smoke, a health hazard, or a nuisance. Carmel's 25-foot setback aligns with the adopted Indiana Fire Code recreational-fire standard.