Denton County, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Denton County, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Gas/Propane Pits
- Allowed during burn bans
- Wood Fires
- Prohibited during burn bans
- Setback
- 25 ft from structures (ESD recommendation)
- Attendance
- Fire must be attended at all times
Summary
Recreational backyard fires are generally permitted in unincorporated Denton County when no burn ban is active. Gas and propane fire pits are exempt from burn bans. Wood-burning fire pits must meet TCEQ requirements and stay attended at all times.
Sec. 352.081. REGULATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING. (c) The commissioners court of a county by order may prohibit or restrict outdoor burning in general or outdoor burning of a particular substance in all or part of the unincorporated area of the county if: (1) drought conditions have been determined to exist as provided by Subsection (b); or (2) the commissioners court makes a finding that circumstances present in all or part of the unincorporated area create a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning. (d) An order adopted under this section must specify the period during which outdoor burning is prohibited or restricted. The period may not extend beyond the 90th day after the date the order is adopted.
Full Breakdown
Unincorporated Denton County does not have a standalone backyard fire ordinance. Recreational fires are governed by TCEQ 30 TAC 111.209 and any active county burn ban. Gas and propane fire pits are exempt from county burn bans under Texas Local Government Code 352.082, which excludes outdoor cooking and gas-fueled devices from ban restrictions. Wood-burning fire pits and chimineas are permitted when no burn ban is in effect, provided the fire is contained in a non-combustible enclosure, kept to a reasonable size, does not produce excessive smoke, and is attended at all times. The fire must not burn prohibited materials such as garbage, treated lumber, or plastics. Many HOA-governed subdivisions in unincorporated Denton County impose their own fire pit restrictions, including setback requirements from structures and property lines. Emergency Services Districts recommend maintaining fire pits at least 25 feet from structures and having a water source nearby.
Violations & Fines
Using a wood-burning fire pit during an active burn ban is a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500. If a backyard fire escapes and damages neighboring property, the responsible party may face civil liability and potential arson charges under Texas Penal Code 28.02.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a backyard fire pit in unincorporated Denton County?
Do HOAs in Denton County restrict fire pits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton County
How Denton County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton County to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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