Gwinnett County, GA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Gwinnett County, GA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 42-46(c)(1)
- Setback from structure
- 50 feet (25 feet if small pile)
- Setback from property line
- 25 feet
- Timing
- Daylight hours only
- Scope
- Unincorporated county
Summary
Burning leaves, limbs, and yard vegetation in unincorporated Gwinnett is allowed without a permit, but only 50 feet from structures, 25 feet from a property line, and kept small.
Burning of leaves, limbs, and natural vegetation that may fall on one's property. a. The location for open burning of natural vegetation shall not be less than 50 feet from any structure, and not less than 25 feet from a property line... b. Fires shall be limited to a size that can be easily controlled under the conditions and with the resources available on the property.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 9).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 42-46(c)(1) permits open burning of leaves, limbs, and natural vegetation that falls on one's own property without a written permit, provided the burn site is at least 50 feet from any structure and 25 feet from a property line (25 feet from a structure if the pile is under three feet in diameter and two feet high), with steps taken to keep the fire from spreading. Fires must be limited to a size that can be easily controlled with the resources on hand, and yard-debris burning is restricted to daylight hours under Sec. 42-46(d)(11).
Violations & Fines
The fire marshal's office may summarily abate a noncompliant burn under Sec. 42-46(e); article violations carry a minimum $250 fine for a first offense, up to $1,000 per day, and/or up to 60 days in jail under Sec. 42-22.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn leaves and limbs in my backyard in unincorporated Gwinnett?
Can I burn yard debris at night?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Gwinnett County
How Gwinnett County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Gwinnett County to another location·View the Georgia fire regulations overview
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