Lower Paxton, PA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Section 106-25 of the Lower Paxton Township Code, adopted 6-18-2024 by Ord. No. 22-04, answers the backyard fire question directly: recreational fires do not require possession of a permit, but each one must satisfy seven conditions. The definition in § 106-23 describes a recreational fire as an outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish, with a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height, for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth generation and similar purposes. Fuel contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit falls outside that definition.

On fuel, no refuse, recyclables, construction materials, leaves or yard trimmings can be burned. Only dried, seasoned wood, charcoal and manufactured logs are allowed. On equipment, the fire must be in a burn container fitted by a protective barrier or in a portable fire pit as approved by Township specifications. A burn container is a noncombustible container or enclosure with no holes greater than one inch, covered by wire mesh or another noncombustible cover to prevent fly ash from escaping.

On distance, the rule is 25 feet from any property line or structure for a fire in a burn container. A fire contained in a portable fire pit may sit 15 feet from any property line or structure. On safety, a garden hose or portable fire extinguisher must be available for immediate use if fire particulants spread beyond the burn container or pit, and the fire must be completely extinguished at the end of use. It cannot be left unattended or left to "burn out."

Anything beyond that profile falls under the open burning prohibition in § 106-24, including burning trash or leaves. Under § 106-26, any Township police officer or fire official assigned by the Township Manager enforces the article.