Meridian, ID Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Meridian, ID, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Setback
- 25 ft from structure or combustible material
- Max size
- 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high
- Penalty
- up to $500 fine, 30 days jail
- Enforced by
- Meridian Fire Department
- Governing rule
- IFC 307.4.2 as amended by city
Summary
Meridian caps backyard fire pits at 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, and bans burning within 25 feet of any structure or combustible material under the city's amended fire code.
Section 307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. Recreational fires shall not have a total fuel area larger than three feet (3') in diameter and not more than two feet (2') in height.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 14).
Full Breakdown
Meridian's locally amended fire code sets specific limits for backyard recreational fires: fire pits, chimeneas, and similar open flames used for warmth or cooking, as opposed to open burning of debris. Under IFC section 307.4.2 as amended, a recreational fire cannot be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, and any conditions near that zone that could let the fire spread must be eliminated before ignition. The fire itself is capped at 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high. The Meridian Fire Department administers and enforces the fire code citywide within city limits.
Violations & Fines
Violating the amended fire code -- including recreational-fire setback and size limits -- is a misdemeanor punishable by up to $500 and 30 days in jail; each day of continued violation counts separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a fire pit in my Meridian backyard?
Do I need a permit for a small backyard fire pit in Meridian?
What happens if my fire pit is too close to my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Meridian
How Meridian compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Meridian to another location·View the Idaho fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle fire pits & backyard fires.