Erie, PA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Erie, PA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- IFC 307.2, 307.4.1, 307.4.2 (adopted by Erie)
- Permitted hours
- 5-11pm Mon-Thu; 5pm-12am Fri-Sun/holidays
- Recreational fire setback
- 25 feet from structure/combustibles
- Bonfire
- Permit required; 50 ft setback (or BBQ pit)
Summary
Erie permits recreational backyard fires of seasoned firewood between 5 pm and 11 pm Monday-Thursday and 5 pm to midnight on weekends and federal holidays, kept 25 feet from any structure. Bonfires require a permit from the fire code official and must stay 50 feet from structures unless contained in a barbecue pit.
307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. ... 307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. 307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Recreational fires in the City of Erie are regulated under International Fire Code Section 307. 2, recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, with spread conditions eliminated before ignition. The City of Erie Fire Department permits recreational burning between the hours of 5 pm to 11 pm on weekdays (Monday through Thursday) and 5 pm until 12 am on weekends (Friday through Sunday) and federally observed holidays. Only dry, seasoned firewood in an approved container (metal or masonry fire ring, portable outdoor fireplace, or chiminea) may be used.
6 before kindling a bonfire, and a bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet of a structure or combustible material unless contained in a barbecue pit. 5).
Violations & Fines
Recreational fires outside permitted hours or setbacks, and unpermitted bonfires, allow the fire code official to order extinguishment (IFC 307.3). Burning prohibited materials in a backyard fire is separately citable under QOL-31's escalating Quality of Life fines (up to $100).
Frequently Asked Questions
What hours can I have a backyard fire in Erie?
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire in Erie?
What is the difference between a recreational fire and a bonfire here?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Erie
How Erie compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Erie to another location·View the Pennsylvania fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.