Fire pit rules in Mount Vernon, NY — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Small contained recreational fires using clean dry wood or charcoal are generally allowed if under 3 ft high and 4 ft diameter, attended at all times, and kept well away from structures. Mount Vernon's tight lot spacing makes safe fire pit use difficult.
NY DEC Part 215 allows small cooking and recreational fires under 3 feet high by 4 feet wide if supervised, using only clean seasoned wood or charcoal, and never burning trash. Mount Vernon fire code requires fires be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material and never unattended. Given typical 30-50 ft lot widths, many properties cannot meet the setback.
Fire marshal can order immediate extinguishment and issue summons. Fires causing damage trigger cost recovery and potential criminal charges.
Mount Vernon, NY
Mount Vernon operates alternate-side parking for street cleaning and enforces residential permit parking in several districts. Non-residents cannot park over...
Mount Vernon, NY
Driveways must be paved, properly permitted curb cuts, and cannot block sidewalks. Parking on front lawns or unpaved areas is prohibited in residential zones.
Mount Vernon, NY
Recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers are generally prohibited from parking on public streets and in front-yard setbacks in residential zones. Storage i...
Mount Vernon, NY
Retaining walls over 4 ft measured from bottom of footing to top of wall require a building permit and sealed engineered drawings. Walls with surcharge (driv...
Mount Vernon, NY
A building permit from the Mount Vernon Building Department is required for most new fences and for replacements that change height, materials, or location. ...
Mount Vernon, NY
Chickens and livestock are prohibited in Mount Vernon residential zones. The city's dense urban character (~4 sq mi) excludes agricultural uses from zoning.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Westchester County.
See how other cities in Westchester County handle fire pit rules.
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