Lenexa, KS Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

The fire pit standards are in Section 3-5-D-2-B-6 of the Lenexa City Code. Section 3-5-I-4 defines a portable outdoor fireplace as a chiminea, outdoor fireplace, fire pit or other portable wood-burning device used, designed and intended for outdoor recreation or heating, and recreational burning as the open burning of firewood for campfires or other small recreational fires. Firewood means natural wood that is not sawn lumber, painted, varnished, coated or pressure treated, and that contains no resins or glues such as in plywood.

The operating conditions stack up. The fire must be contained in an above ground or below ground fire pit or otherwise protected by a metal, stone or concrete barrier. The burn pile cannot exceed 2 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. A fire spark screen or other protective mesh screen designed to keep sparks and embers contained must cover the fire. The fire cannot be located in City right-of-way, sidewalks or streets, and must be at least 15 feet from any structures, vehicles or combustible material. It must be attended at all times while in use and cannot cause an unreasonable nuisance or annoyance or unreasonably interfere with the enjoyment of life or property. Only traditional firewood or commercial fire starting products can be burned, no refuse or land clearance materials, and no flammable liquid can be used to ignite the fire. Portable fireplaces must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The permit requirement depends on where the fire is. The recreational burning permit in Section 3-5-D-2-B-6 covers locations other than one- and two family dwellings, and Section 3-5-D-3 exempts one- and two-family dwellings from the permit as long as the same requirements are met. Under subsection j, the Fire Chief or designee can temporarily prohibit recreational burning or portable fireplace use when weather conditions warrant. Section 3-5-D-5 also lets the Fire Chief extinguish any burn without prior notice if it violates the Article or threatens public health, safety or welfare.