Little Rock, AR Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Little Rock, AR, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Cooking/BBQ fires
- No permit needed
- Other open burning
- Fire dept. permit required
- Residential burn permit fee
- $5
- Bonfire/special permit fee
- $50 + standby fees
- Allowed fuel
- Clean fuel only
Summary
Little Rock does not require a permit for backyard cooking fires, barbecues, or outdoor fireplaces, but any other open burning, like a bonfire or brush pile, needs a fire department permit first.
Open burning means the burning of any matter in such a manner that the products of combustion resulting from the burning are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through an adequate stack, duct, or chimney. No open burning permit is required for fires used for cooking of food, including barbecues and outdoor fireplaces. A permit from the fire department is required prior to open burning.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 83).
Full Breakdown
Little Rock exempts fires used to cook food, including barbecues and outdoor fireplaces, from its open burning permit rule (Sec. 12-7). Any other backyard fire counts as open burning and needs a fire department permit before you light it (Sec. 12-8). Permits carry specific written conditions, only clean fuel is allowed (no garbage, rubber, plastics, tires, shingles, or treated lumber), and applications should go in at least three days ahead of the burn date. A residential burn permit costs $5; a bonfire/special permit runs $50 plus any after-hours fire marshal or standby fees.
Violations & Fines
Open burning without the required permit, or burning prohibited materials, is a Code violation punishable under Sec. 1-9 by a fine up to $1,000, doubling for each repeat offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard cookout fire in Little Rock?
What about a bonfire or brush pile in my yard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Little Rock
How Little Rock compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Little Rock to another location·View the Arkansas fire regulations overview
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