Minneapolis, MN Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Minneapolis, MN, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Max fuel area
- 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height
- Distance from structures
- 25 feet minimum
- Allowed hours
- 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
- Fuel
- unpainted, untreated wood only
- Max fine
- $80 petty misdemeanor
Summary
Minneapolis caps backyard fire pits at 3 feet across and 2 feet high, 25 feet from any structure, and only 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. under City Code Chapter 178.
(1) The total fuel area being burned in any recreational fire shall not exceed three (3) feet in diameter and two (2) feet in height. (2) Recreational fires shall not be conducted within twenty-five (25) feet of a structure or combustible material. ... (7) Recreational fires shall only be conducted between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
City Code Chapter 178 governs recreational fires: fire pits, chimineas and similar small outdoor fires. The fuel area can't exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, and the fire must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material inside a noncombustible barrier at least 6 inches tall. Only unpainted, untreated wood may be burned, an adult must attend the fire at all times, and fires are limited to 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Fires are barred when wind exceeds 10 mph or during a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency PM2.5 air quality advisory covering the city. The fire chief, police chief, or their authorized officers can order any noncompliant fire extinguished on the spot.
Violations & Fines
Each violation is a petty misdemeanor carrying up to an $80 fine; fire or police officials may also order the fire extinguished immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can a Minneapolis fire pit fire be?
How close can a fire pit be to my house in Minneapolis?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
How Minneapolis compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Minneapolis to another location·View the Minnesota fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Hennepin County handle fire pits & backyard fires.