Portland, ME Fire Regulations: Fire Pit Rules (2026)

Portland Code of Ordinances Chapter 10 (Fire Prevention and Protection) and the Portland Fire Department Rules and Regulations distinguish between three outdoor-fire categories. A 'fixed outdoor fireplace' or 'recreational fire appliance' (manufactured fire pit, chiminea, patio heater designed for solid fuel) may be operated without a Maine Forest Service open-burning permit, but must be installed and operated in accordance with NFPA 211 (2016 ed.) — Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances. The Department's Rules and Regulations require all outdoor fireplaces and recreational fire appliances to be set back at least 15 feet from structures, combustible material, and adjacent property lines. A 'campfire' — any ground-burning fire not contained in a manufactured appliance — requires a state-issued burn permit (12 M.R.S. §9324), a fire ring no larger than 3 ft diameter, fuel pile under 2 ft, and a 25-foot setback. All fires must be constantly attended by a competent adult over 18 until extinguished.