El Paso, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in El Paso, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Max Pile
- 3 ft diameter x 2 ft tall
- Setback
- 25 ft from structures
- Fuel
- Clean wood only
- Burn Ban Rule
- All open fires banned; gas grills OK
- Trash Burning
- Always prohibited
Summary
Backyard recreational fires in El Paso are allowed under IFC rules but restricted to clean wood or manufactured fuels with a 3-foot max pile and 25-foot setback.
Sec. 352.081. REGULATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING. ... (c) The commissioners court of a county by order may prohibit or restrict outdoor burning in general or outdoor burning of a particular substance in all or part of the unincorporated area of the county if:(1) drought conditions have been determined to exist; or(2) the commissioners court makes a finding that circumstances create a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning. ... (h) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly or intentionally violates a prohibition or restriction established by an order. An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
Full Breakdown
Backyard fires for recreation or warmth are permitted as long as they comply with the IFC recreational-fire rules. The fire pile must not exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in height. It must be 25 feet from structures and combustibles. Only clean wood, charcoal, and manufactured logs are allowed. Garbage and yard waste burning is always banned because El Paso is an ozone nonattainment area. When a burn ban is declared by the County Commissioners Court during drought, all open fires including recreational pits are prohibited; gas grills on concrete patios may still be used.
Violations & Fines
Illegal burning during a burn ban: Class C misdemeanor with fines $500 to $2,000. If a fire escapes, the responsible party may face civil liability and criminal charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backyard bonfires legal in El Paso?
Can I still grill during an El Paso burn ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso
How El Paso compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare El Paso to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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