Prince William County, VA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Prince William County, VA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Max size
- 3 ft wide, 2 ft high
- Permit
- Not required
- Clearance
- 25 ft from structures
- Allowed fuel
- Clean dry firewood only
- Attendance
- Constant, with extinguisher
Summary
Small backyard recreational fires (three feet or less across, two feet or less high) are allowed without a permit but must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Only clean firewood may be burned: no trash, leaves, or debris.
Open burning is permitted for camp fires or other fires that are used solely for recreational purposes, for ceremonial occasions, for outdoor noncommercial preparation of food, and for warming of outdoor workers provided the materials specified in subsections B and C of 9VAC5-130-30 are not burned.
Full Breakdown
Backyard fires in Prince William County are governed by the Statewide Fire Prevention Code as applied by the Fire Marshal's Office. A recreational backyard fire, three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less high, used solely for recreation, ceremony, or cooking, needs no permit. It must be kept at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material and constantly attended with a means of extinguishment nearby. Burning of leaves, yard debris, and household trash is prohibited under Virginia DEQ air rules. During the Feb 15–Apr 30 spring fire season, the state 4 p.m. burn law also applies to fires near woodland.
Violations & Fines
The fire code official may order any hazardous backyard fire extinguished; burning prohibited materials or violating the seasonal burn law can bring fines and misdemeanor charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far must a backyard fire be from my house?
Can I burn yard leaves in my backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Prince William County
How Prince William County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Prince William County to another location·View the Virginia fire regulations overview
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