Fire pit rules in Essex County, NJ — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Fire pits and recreational fires in Essex County follow the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code, which adopts the International Fire Code. Recreational fires must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material and be constantly attended until fully extinguished.
Essex County has no county-wide fire department; the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code (N.J.A.C. 5:70), which adopts the International Fire Code, is enforced by each municipality's fire official. Under IFC Section 307.4.2, a recreational fire (including a fire-pit fire) must not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material. Portable outdoor fireplaces and fire pits must be operated per manufacturer instructions and, per Section 307.5, constantly attended with fire-extinguishing equipment on hand until the fire is out. Individual Newark-area towns may impose stricter setback or size limits, so confirm rules with your local fire prevention bureau.
Fires within 25 feet of a structure, or left unattended, violate the adopted fire code and can be ordered extinguished by the fire official, with fines under the local fire prevention code.
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