Fire pit rules in Polk County, FL — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Small recreational fires in a barbecue grill or pit are generally allowed when contained, but Polk's frequent countywide burn bans prohibit open recreational fires and only permit fires in a grill/pit with a fuel area no larger than 3 feet diameter, 2 feet high.
Polk County has no year-round permit for a small backyard fire pit, but recreational burning is controlled by the county's often-active burn ban (Ordinance 08-015) and Florida Forest Service rules. During a declared burn ban, campfires and bonfires are prohibited; the only allowed fires are non-commercial fires 'contained in a barbecue grill or barbecue pit' with a total fuel area not exceeding 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. When no ban is active, keep recreational fires small, attended, away from structures, and never burn household trash. Municipalities (Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow) may add rules.
Violating an active burn ban (Ordinance 08-015) is punishable by a fine not to exceed $500 or imprisonment not to exceed 60 days in county jail, or both.
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