Phoenix, AZ Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Under the Phoenix Fire Code, a 'recreational fire' is exempt from the open-burning operational permit required by section 105.5.36. Section 307.4.2 requires that recreational fires not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material and that conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure be eliminated prior to ignition. A recreational fire under the IFC is an outdoor fire with a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes. Section 307.5 requires constant attendance until the fire is extinguished, with a 4-A fire extinguisher or other on-site extinguishing means available. Wood-burning recreational fires are still prohibited on a Maricopa County No Burn Day, and during the county's seasonal restriction (May 1-September 30 in Area A) outdoor fires for warmth or recreation are prohibited.