Fire pit rules in Howard County, MD — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Manufactured fire pits, chimineas and luminaries must have spark arrestors, keep the fire area under 3 feet in diameter, and sit at least 15 feet from any building or structure. They may not be used on balconies or under overhangs.
Under Howard County's adopted Fire Prevention Code (Title 17, Section 104) and Title 12, Section 108 of the County Code, small recreational devices up to 3 feet in diameter, chimineas, fire pits and luminaries, must be equipped with spark arrestors and the fire area cannot exceed 3 feet across. Placement is regulated: these devices cannot be used or kindled on a balcony, under an overhanging portion of a building, or within 15 feet of any building or structure. Only electric grills that use no alternative fuel may be approved for balcony use. Do not burn leaves, brush, trash or yard waste in a fire pit.
Non-compliant use may result in a citation and/or fine from the Office of the Fire Marshal. Fires must be attended and extinguished if winds exceed 10 MPH or a fire ban is declared.
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