Grand Rapids, MI Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Grand Rapids, MI, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- yes, from City Manager's designee
- Setback from structures/lot lines
- 20 feet minimum
- Setback from overhead lines
- 15 feet minimum
- Permit term
- 1 year, renewable
Summary
Grand Rapids requires a City permit for any outdoor fire pit or chiminea, plus a 20-foot setback from structures and lot lines and a 15-foot setback from overhead lines.
The fire pit or container is located at least 20 feet from any structure or combustible material. ... The fire pit or container is located at least 20 feet from any lot line, roadway, alleyway, or fence. The fire pit or container is located at least 15 feet from any overhead line.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 9.35 of the Grand Rapids City Code allows contained recreational fires in an outdoor fire pit, chiminea, or similar free-standing container only after the resident obtains a permit from the City Manager's designee. The fire pit must sit in a residential zone district, at least 20 feet from any structure or combustible material, 20 feet from any lot line, roadway, alleyway, or fence, and at least 15 feet from overhead lines. Permits run one year and are renewable, and neighbors within 120 feet must be notified before a permit issues.
Violations & Fines
Violations are a municipal civil infraction under Chapter 170; the Fire Chief or a designee may issue citations, and a third infraction against the same person can bring a misdemeanor complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Grand Rapids?
How far must a fire pit be from my house or fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grand Rapids
How Grand Rapids compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Grand Rapids to another location·View the Michigan fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Kent County handle fire pits & backyard fires.