Fire pit rules in Allegheny County, PA β also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances β cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Allegheny County permits recreational fire pits with Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) air quality restrictions. Fires must be contained in approved receptacles, burn only clean seasoned wood, and stay well clear of structures per International Fire Code adopted by PA UCC.
ACHD Article XXI governs open burning in Allegheny County, which is a federal air quality non-attainment area for fine particulates (PM2.5). Recreational fire pits are treated as open burning unless contained in a manufactured device burning clean dry wood or propane. Typical standards adopted by municipalities: fire pits must be at least 15-25 feet from any structure, property line, or combustible material, no larger than 3 feet in diameter, and attended at all times with water or extinguisher on hand. Pressure-treated lumber, painted wood, leaves, trash, and yard waste are prohibited fuels. ACHD may issue burn bans during air quality action days.
ACHD citations for prohibited materials or smoke nuisance: $100-$1,000 per day. Municipal fire code violations add local fines. Fires causing damage can trigger criminal charges under PA Crimes Code.
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