Meridian, ID Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

The City of Meridian allows recreational fire pits and cooking fires, and the Open Burning Ordinance exempts food-preparation fires and campfires under the control of a responsible person from the burn-permit requirement. The key limits come from Meridian's adopted International Fire Code amendments in Title 10, Chapter 4 (Ordinance 20-1905). Fire Code section 307.4.2 provides that recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7,620 mm) of a structure or combustible material, and conditions that could allow a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure must be eliminated before ignition. A recreational fire's total fuel area may not be larger than 3 feet in diameter and not more than 2 feet in height. Recreational fires are exempt from the general 8:00 AM to sunset open-burning hours, so they may be enjoyed in the evening. However, open burning, including recreational fires, is prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make fires hazardous, including winds of 10 mph or greater, a red flag fire-danger warning from the National Weather Service, or an open-burning ban due to air quality (IFC 307.1.1). Manufactured outdoor fireplaces and grills are commonly used within these limits. Fire Code violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a fine of up to $500 or up to 30 days in jail.