Hinds County, MS Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

Mississippi adopted the International Fire Code through the Mississippi State Fire Marshal under MS Code Ann. §45-11-7, and Hinds County jurisdictions enforce IFC §307 for recreational fires. In Jackson, fire pits are regulated through Chapter 46 of the Jackson Municipal Code and Jackson Fire Department guidance, requiring a minimum 25-foot setback from any structure, property line, or combustible material. Pits must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. Only clean, seasoned wood is allowed; burning of trash, treated lumber, plastics, or construction debris is prohibited under MDEQ Air Quality regulations. A responsible adult must remain present with a connected garden hose or fire extinguisher until the fire is fully extinguished. Commercial fuel fire pits (propane, natural gas) with CSA-approved appliances have relaxed setbacks, typically 10 feet. The Mississippi Forestry Commission regularly issues summer drought burn bans that apply countywide and supersede local allowances. Jackson State University, Tougaloo, and Millsaps campuses prohibit open fires on campus property. Pearl River floodplain neighborhoods should avoid fires during high wind or dry conditions due to rapid grass fire spread.