Fire pit rules in Cleveland, OH — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Recreational fire pits in Cleveland fall under §277.09 open burning rules and may require a permit. Ohio EPA allows contained fires up to 3 ft diameter with clean fuel, but Cleveland's local air quality rules may impose additional requirements.
Cleveland's open burning ordinance §277.09 governs fire pits. Non-commercial cooking fires are explicitly exempt from the permit requirement. For recreational warmth fires, the Ohio EPA allows up to 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high using clean seasoned firewood or natural gas without state notification. However, Cleveland Division of Air Quality may require permits for fires beyond cooking exemptions. All fires must use clean fuel — no trash, treated wood, or yard waste. Must not create a nuisance to neighbors.
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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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cuyahoga County.
See how other cities in Cuyahoga County handle fire pit rules.
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