Maple Grove, MN Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

Maple Grove regulates backyard fire pits as 'recreational fires' under City Code Sec. 18-78 (Ordinance 20-07, amending MSFC Section 307) and the Fire Department's Recreational Burn Permit policy. A recreational fire permit is required before any recreational fire, including open-air fires, fires contained in metal/clay/concrete devices (whether portable or permanent), and portable outdoor gas-fired devices. Permits are free, valid for the calendar year of issuance through December 31, and obtained online; they apply only to the homeowner and the property listed. Size and setback limits differ by device. An open-air recreational fire must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height and must be at least 25 feet from all combustible materials, with spread-causing conditions cleared within 25 feet of any structure before ignition. A fire wholly contained within a metal, clay, or concrete device (a typical fire pit or chiminea) must not be operated within 15 feet of any combustible materials. Portable outdoor gas-fired decorative devices must sit at least 5 feet from buildings and combustible overhangs. Only dry, clean, unpainted, untreated wood or cooking charcoal may be burned; wood pieces must be under 3 feet long. Sustained winds must be under 10 mph, a means of extinguishment must be on hand, and an unimpaired adult 18 or older must attend until the fire is out.