Dearborn, MI Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Dearborn, MI, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Location
- Rear yard only
- Setback
- 15 ft from any structure
- Hours
- 11 a.m.–1 a.m.
- Supervision
- Adult 18 or older required
- Fuel
- Clean, unpainted wood only
Summary
Dearborn bans open burning and in-ground fire pits citywide, but allows screened patio wood-burning units, portable fire pits, chimeneas, patio warmers, in the rear yard only, 15 feet from any structure, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
A patio wood-burning unit may be used in the City of Dearborn only in accordance with all of the following provisions: ... (3) The patio wood-burning unit shall be located in the rear yard only. ... (4) The patio wood-burning unit shall be located at least 15 feet from the nearest structure ... (6) Operational hours for any patio wood-burning unit shall be limited to the time between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-07: Code: Updated through: July 22, 2026 | Zoning: Updated through: July 22, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Dearborn's fire code bans open burning and in-ground fire pits citywide, including burning brush, leaves, and yard waste. The only permitted outdoor fire device is a screened, noncombustible patio wood-burning unit, a portable fire pit, chimenea, or patio warmer, used in the rear yard (the yard opposite the front door on corner lots), burning only clean, unpainted wood, never refuse. Units must sit at least 15 feet from any structure, operate only between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m., stay supervised by someone 18 or older, and have a hose, water bucket, or 2A10BC extinguisher within 20 feet. The fire and police departments enforce the rule.
Violations & Fines
Violating any provision is a civil infraction; a third violation within a 12-month period becomes a misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a fire pit in my front yard in Dearborn?
What fire-extinguishing equipment must I keep nearby?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dearborn
How Dearborn compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Dearborn to another location·View the Michigan fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wayne County handle fire pits & backyard fires.