Green Bay, WI Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Green Bay, WI, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Where allowed
- residential 1- or 2-family lots only
- In-ground setback
- 25 ft from structures/property line
- Portable pit setback
- 15 ft (no mfr. instructions)
- Size/flame limit
- 3 ft area, 3 ft flames
- Wind limit
- no burning above 10 mph
Summary
Green Bay allows recreational fires and fire pits only on residential single- or two-family lots, kept 25 feet from buildings and property lines and no higher than 3 feet.
Recreational fires, barbeque pits, portable fire pits, and portable outdoor fireplaces are permitted on properties zoned residential and occupied by a single- or two-family residence under the following conditions:(1)Recreational in-ground fire pits shall be at least 25 feet from any type of a building or structure, combustible material of any form, or property line.(2)Recreational fires, barbecue pits, and outdoor fireplaces shall be contained in an area not to exceed three feet wide by three feet long...The flames of the fire shall be no higher than three feet.
Full Breakdown
Sec. 18-66 permits recreational fires, barbecue pits, portable fire pits, and portable outdoor fireplaces only on residentially zoned property occupied by a single- or two-family home. In-ground fire pits must sit at least 25 feet from any building, combustible material, or property line; fires must stay within a 3-foot by 3-foot area (or 3-foot diameter circle) with flames no higher than 3 feet. Portable listed fire pits need at least 15 feet of clearance absent manufacturer instructions. Only clean, dry wood may burn, no trash, treated wood, leaves, or yard waste, and burning is banned above a 10 mph wind and whenever the Fire Chief declares a burning ban.
Violations & Fines
A fire pit that violates these conditions must be extinguished on a Fire Department order, and the adopted International Fire Code sets a civil ordinance forfeiture up to $1,000.00 plus costs for fire code violations (Sec. 18-44(4)a).
Frequently Asked Questions
How far from my house must a Green Bay fire pit be?
Can I have a fire pit at my Green Bay apartment building?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Green Bay
How Green Bay compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Green Bay to another location·View the Wisconsin fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Brown County handle fire pits & backyard fires.