Guilford County, NC Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Guilford County, NC, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Permit needed
- No, if clean wood only
- Max size
- 3 ft wide, 2 ft high
- Setback
- 25 feet from structures
- Fuel allowed
- Firewood only, no trash
- Attendance
- Constantly attended until out
Summary
Small backyard recreational fires for cooking, warmth, or pleasure are allowed in Guilford County without a burn permit, as long as only clean wood is burned. The fire must stay under 3 feet wide, sit at least 25 feet from structures, be constantly attended, and never burn trash or yard
Campfires, outdoor cooking fires and bonfires are permissible, unless prohibited by local ordinances or temporary burn bans, provided that only vegetation such as firewood is burned.
Full Breakdown
Backyard campfires and cookout fires are treated as 'recreational fires' under NC Fire Prevention Code §307, separate from permitted open burning of yard waste. A recreational fire is defined as no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, burning only firewood for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, or warmth purposes. Because these fires burn clean wood in a small controlled pile, they do not need a Forest Service burn permit, but §307.4.2 still requires them to stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. NC DEQ confirms 'campfires, outdoor cooking fires and bonfires are permissible, unless prohibited by local ordinances or temporary burn bans, provided that only vegetation such as firewood is burned.'
Violations & Fines
The Guilford County Fire Marshal or a responding fire department can order an unsafe or unattended backyard fire extinguished and cite the responsible party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard campfire in Guilford County?
Can I burn leaves or trash in my backyard fire pit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Guilford County
How Guilford County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Guilford County to another location·View the North Carolina fire regulations overview
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