Dakota County, MN Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Dakota County, MN, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Max size (campfire)
- 3 ft diameter by 3 ft high
- Clearance
- 5 ft cleared of combustibles
- Typical setback
- 25 ft from buildings (city rule)
- Permit
- None for recreational fire
- Fuel
- Clean dry wood only
Summary
Recreational fires in a backyard fire pit are allowed under the Minnesota State Fire Code without a DNR burn permit if kept small: no more than 3 feet in diameter, set well back from structures, attended, and burning only clean dry wood. Cities set the exact setbacks.
A permit is not needed for a 'campfire' - a fire set for cooking, warming, or ceremonial purposes, which is not more than 3 feet in diameter by 3 feet high, and has had the ground 5 feet from the base of the fire cleared of all combustible material.
Full Breakdown
The Minnesota State Fire Code treats a small backyard fire as a recreational fire, exempt from a DNR open-burning permit. Under the DNR campfire exemption a fire is allowed if it is 'not more than 3 feet in diameter by 3 feet high, and has had the ground 5 feet from the base of the fire cleared of all combustible material.' Most Dakota County cities (Rosemount, Hastings, Burnsville) require the fire to be at least 25 feet from buildings, contained in a ring or pit, constantly attended, and fueled only by dry, clean wood, never trash or leaves. Fire pit setbacks and any permits are set by your city, not the county.
Violations & Fines
An out-of-control or non-compliant fire can be ordered extinguished by the fire department; repeat or nuisance fires may draw a municipal citation and cost-recovery for response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
How far from my house must a fire pit be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dakota County
How Dakota County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Dakota County to another location·View the Minnesota fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.