Fire pit rules in Hamilton County, IN — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in Hamilton County cities but sized and sited by local ordinance. Carmel's burning ordinance requires campfires at least 25 feet from any combustible structure, capped in size, contained, and constantly attended. Requirements are set by each city; the county governs only unincorporated land.
Land-use and open-fire rules here are city, not county. Carmel is representative: its burning ordinance permits campfires for recreational or cooking purposes only. A ground campfire must be at least 25 feet from any combustible structure or object, no larger than 3 feet by 3 feet by 2 feet, and completely encircled with a stone or other noncombustible border. Other campfires must be within a vented noncombustible container (enclosed sides, bottom, and mesh covering with openings one-quarter square inch or less) or a professionally designed, city-approved fire pit, and no larger than 5 by 5 by 5 feet. Only commercial fire-starters and untreated wood may be burned, an extinguishment means must be present, and the fire must be monitored constantly.
Any person who violates Carmel's open burning law is subject to a fine of up to $500 for each violation. The Carmel Fire Department may order a fire extinguished, and an escaped fire can bring liability for suppression costs and
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Hamilton County's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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