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.
El Paso allows residential fire pits for recreational use subject to the International Fire Code adopted under Chapter 18.24.
Under the IFC adopted by the city, recreational fires including portable fire pits, chimineas, and masonry pits are permitted outdoors with restrictions. The pit must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material unless it is a commercially manufactured unit with a spark screen, in which case 15 feet is acceptable. Only clean, dry wood or commercially available manufactured logs may be burned; trash, leaves, construction debris, and painted wood are prohibited. Fires must be attended by a responsible adult with water or an extinguisher available. During red-flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service for the Franklin Mountains or desert areas, all outdoor burning may be banned.
Violation of fire pit rules: Class C misdemeanor, $100 to $500 per offense. If a fire escapes containment, the responsible party may face restitution for suppression costs and potential criminal charges.
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See how El Paso's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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