Colonie, NY Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

Colonie is a Uniform Code town under the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, enforced locally by the Colonie Department of Public Operations and Building Department and by the various Colonie-area fire districts. 19 NYCRR Part 1219 adopts the 2020 International Fire Code (IFC) as the state Fire Code. IFC Section 307.4.2 governs recreational fires: a fire is 'recreational' only if it is outdoors, the fuel is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit; the total fuel area is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height; and it is used for pleasure, cooking, or warmth. IFC 307.4.2 requires a minimum 25-foot clearance from any structure or combustible material. Portable outdoor fireplaces (manufactured fire bowls, chimineas) used at one- and two-family dwellings have a reduced 15-foot setback under IFC 307.4.3. Only seasoned natural firewood may be burned; burning trash, leaves, brush, treated wood, and construction debris is prohibited under 6 NYCRR Part 215 (see outdoor-burning entry for the statewide ban). An attendant must remain on site with a connected garden hose, water supply, fire extinguisher, or shovel and dirt until the fire is completely out. IFC 307.1.1 authorizes the fire code official to prohibit any open burning that is offensive, hazardous, or contrary to atmospheric conditions, which Colonie fire districts apply during high winds, drought, or DEC-declared bans. The Town of Colonie Town Code (eCode360 CO0290) does not add a dedicated local fire-pit chapter; Chapter 116 (Building Construction Administration) cross-references the state Uniform Code for enforcement.