Effingham County, GA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

A recreational fire pit falls under the same 'outdoor fire containment device' framework as any other open flame in Chapter 36, Article IV, but the code gives it its own size ceiling: Sec. 36-42 defines a 'campfire or recreational fire' as a small fire not exceeding three feet in diameter and two feet in height; larger than that and it becomes a 'bonfire' subject to stricter handling. Sec. 36-45's setback list applies to every open fire, including a fire pit: 150 feet from any public road, 25 feet from woodlands, brush or flammable vegetation, 25 feet from wetlands or streams, and 500 feet from a sensitive receptor such as a school, day-care, hospital or nursing home, with the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) able to demand more distance for a hazardous site.

Sec. 36-48 limits burning hours to between sunrise and sunset, requires charging (adding fuel) to stop at least one hour before sunset, and requires the fire to be continuously supervised and attended by a responsible adult from ignition through extinguishment unless the AHJ says otherwise. A fire pit still cannot be lit during a red flag warning, high wind, low humidity or a county burn ban under Sec. 36-44, and it remains subject to the $250 to $1,000 civil fine per violation the county can impose under Sec. 36-50.3 for noncompliance.