Fire pit rules in Cincinnati, OH — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Fire pits in Cincinnati fall under the Cincinnati Fire Prevention Code (CMC Title XII). Ohio EPA allows recreational fires ≤3 ft diameter using clean wood; Cincinnati's local fire code may be stricter. Verify with Cincinnati Fire before use.
Cincinnati follows Ohio Fire Code (OAC 1301:7-7) for recreational fires. Approved fire pits must be 25+ feet from structures and combustible materials. Maximum 3-foot diameter for wood-burning pits. Fire must be attended at all times with extinguishing means nearby. No burning of trash, treated wood, or construction debris. Gas/propane fire pits generally exempt from size restrictions. County burn bans during drought conditions may restrict all open flames.
Illegal burning: $100 to $500. Ohio EPA open burning violation (OAC 3745-19): $100 to $500/day. Causing a fire: criminal charges possible.
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See how Cincinnati's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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