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.
Backyard fire pits and portable outdoor fireplaces are allowed in Guilford County under the NC Fire Code. Recreational fires must stay at least 25 feet from any structure, portable fireplaces at least 15 feet (waived for one- and two-family homes), and the fire must be constantly attended.
Guilford County enforces the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code (based on the International Fire Code). Section 307.1 defines a recreational fire as one no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high burning only wood, for pleasure, cooking, or warmth. Under Section 307.4.2, recreational fires 'shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material.' Manufactured portable outdoor fireplaces (chimineas, steel fire bowls) fall under Section 307.4.3 and must not operate within 15 feet of a structure, though an exception waives that separation for one- and two-family dwellings. Only clean, dry wood may be burned, not trash, leaves, or yard debris. Fires must be constantly attended until extinguished, with a hose or extinguisher on hand,
Fire Code violations can be cited by the Guilford County Fire Marshal or local fire department; an unsafe or unattended fire may be ordered extinguished. Ignoring an active burn ban or letting a fire escape can bring misdemeanor charges and
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