Pierce County, WA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Pierce County, WA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Permit
- None for recreational fires
- Max size
- 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall
- Fuel
- Charcoal or clean wood only
- Attendance
- Must be attended, then out
Summary
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Pierce County without a permit, but only small fires burning clean wood or charcoal. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency caps them at three feet across, and all fires stop during seasonal burn bans.
Recreational fires are defined as cooking fires, charcoal barbecues, campfires, and bonfires using charcoal or bare untreated wood in designated areas or on private property for cooking, pleasure or ceremonial purposes.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
A backyard recreational fire in Pierce County is legal without a burn permit as long as it stays within Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and fire district limits. PSCAA defines recreational fires as cooking fires, charcoal barbecues, campfires, and bonfires using charcoal or bare untreated wood, and caps them at three feet in diameter and two feet in height. Only charcoal, dry firewood, or manufactured firelogs may be burned; burning yard debris or trash is illegal. Fires must be attended at all times by someone able to extinguish them and fully put out before leaving. Pierce County fire districts add a 25-foot setback from structures and 10-foot clearance around the fire.
Violations & Fines
Oversized fires, burning prohibited materials, leaving a fire unattended, or burning during a ban can bring PSCAA and fire district penalties and orders to extinguish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backyard fires legal in Pierce County?
Can I have a fire during a burn ban?
Do I have to watch the fire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
How Pierce County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Pierce County to another location·View the Washington fire regulations overview
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