Montgomery County, OH Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Montgomery County, OH, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Governing rule
- Ohio EPA OAC 3745-19-03
- Recreational fire limit
- 3 ft wide, 2 ft high
- Larger fire
- 5 ft x 5 ft with EPA notice
- Allowed fuel
- Clean seasoned firewood, natural gas
- Never allowed
- Burning trash or waste
Summary
Backyard recreational fires in Montgomery County are governed by Ohio EPA's open-burning rule, not a county ordinance. Cooking and pleasure fires with clean firewood are allowed if kept small; burning waste is prohibited.
They shall have a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height.
Full Breakdown
Montgomery County has no standalone backyard-fire code; recreational fires follow Ohio EPA rule OAC 3745-19-03. Bonfires and campfires for cooking, pleasure, warmth, or ceremony are permitted without notification when fueled with clean seasoned firewood, natural gas, or equivalent, and kept to a fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height. They may never be used to dispose of waste. Larger ceremonial fires (up to five feet by five feet, three hours) need prior notice to Ohio EPA. Your city or township fire department may add setback-from-structure and attendance rules, so confirm locally.
Violations & Fines
Oversized or waste-burning fires can trigger Ohio EPA violations and civil penalties plus local citations. A fire that spreads or damages property adds civil and possibly criminal liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can my backyard fire be?
Can I have a bonfire for a party?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Montgomery County
How Montgomery County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Montgomery County to another location·View the Ohio fire regulations overview
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