Little Elm, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Little Elm, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Burn Permit
- Required for wood-burning fires
- Gas/Propane Pits
- Generally exempt if enclosed
- Cooking Fires
- Grills permitted without permit
- Setback
- 15 ft minimum from structures
- Supervision
- Adult must attend at all times
Summary
Wood-burning fire pits and bonfires in Little Elm require a burn permit from the Fire Department. Gas/propane fire pits with enclosed flames may be exempt. Grills allowed without permit.
Sec. 352.081. REGULATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING. (a) In this section, "drought conditions" means the existence of a long-term deficit of moisture creating atypically severe conditions with increased wildfire occurrence as defined by the Texas Forest Service through the use of the Keetch-Byram Drought Index or, when that index is not available, through the use of a comparable measurement that takes into consideration the burning index, spread component, or ignition component for the particular area.(b) On the request of the commissioners court of a county, the Texas Forest Service shall determine whether drought conditions exist in all or part of the county. The Texas Forest Service shall make available the measurement index guidelines that determine whether a particular area is in drought
Full Breakdown
Little Elm Chapter 50 Fire Prevention requires a burn permit for any open burning on residential property. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and backyard bonfires all require a valid annual burn permit ($25 via the MyGov portal). Gas and propane fire pits with permanently enclosed flames and manufacturer safety shutoffs are generally exempt from the burn permit requirement, though residents should verify with the Fire Marshal. Charcoal and gas grills used for cooking are permitted without a burn permit. Fires must be attended by an adult at all times and must be fully extinguished before being left unattended. Fire pits must be placed a safe distance from structures, typically 15 feet minimum from any building or combustible material. Denton County burn bans prohibit all outdoor burning including permitted fire pits during declared ban periods. Wind speeds above 15 mph make conditions unsafe for open flames.
Violations & Fines
Unattended fire or burning without permit: citation plus extinguishment by fire department. Fine up to $2,000 for fire code violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Little Elm?
Can I have a bonfire in my backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Little Elm
How Little Elm compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Little Elm to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle fire pits & backyard fires.