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Genesee County, MI Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Fire pit rules in Genesee County, MI, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.

Key Facts

Regulated by
City or township, not county
Genesee Twp fuel
Clean wood or commercial fuel
Genesee Twp cutoff
Extinguished by midnight
County parks
Designated rings/grills only
Park flame height
Max 3 feet

Summary

Recreational campfires are allowed but governed by your city or township, not the county. In Charter Township of Genesee, they must be clean wood only, no bigger than the permitted pit, and completely out by midnight.

City-specific rules exist: Flint has its own fire pits & backyard fires rules that differ from Genesee County's county-level regulations. If you live in Flint, check the city-specific page instead.

Build any fire except within the fireplaces, fire rings, grills or open spaces approved and designated by the Commission. Fires shall be maintained so that the flames are no more than three feet in height.

Full Breakdown

Small recreational and campfires in Genesee County are regulated by each municipality's fire ordinance. Charter Township of Genesee (Ordinance 504) allows one open fire per day per permitted address and requires recreational fires to burn only clean wood products or commercial fuel, be contained in a pit no larger than 48 inches across, and be fully extinguished by midnight. Fires may not be started before sunrise. Similar clean-fuel, contained-pit rules apply across Flint, Grand Blanc, Fenton and other communities, though hours and permit requirements differ. In county parks, fires are allowed only in designated fireplaces, rings or grills, with flames under three feet.

Violations & Fines

In Charter Township of Genesee, violating the fire ordinance is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine, or both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a campfire in my backyard?
Yes, subject to your city or township rules. In Charter Township of Genesee, recreational fires must use clean wood, stay in a contained pit, and be out by midnight.
Are fires allowed in Genesee County parks?
Only in fireplaces, fire rings, grills or approved designated spaces, and flames must be no more than three feet high. Unattended fires are prohibited.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Genesee County

All Genesee County rules

How Genesee County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Genesee County to another location·View the Michigan fire regulations overview

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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Cities Across Genesee County