Fire pit rules in Madison, AL — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Madison generally bans open burning, but backyard fire pits are permitted. The City's guidance states fire pits are allowed if you use extreme caution and stay with the fire while it is burning. Never leave any fire unattended.
The City of Madison Fire & Rescue treats recreational fire pits as an exception to its open-burning prohibition. Per the City's Open Burning guidance, 'Burning of any type is illegal in the City of Madison. Fire pits are permitted but use extreme caution and stay with the fire while it is burning.' Only clean, dry firewood should be burned, never trash, yard waste, or construction debris (which are prohibited open-burning materials). If the fire creates a hazard, nuisance smoke, or a complaint, the Fire Department can respond and require it be extinguished. For any burning beyond a small recreational fire, contact the Fire Marshal's Office for a permit.
The Fire Department can order a fire extinguished and issue a citation if a fire pit creates a hazard or nuisance, or if prohibited materials are being burned.
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