Fire pit rules in Portland, OR — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in Portland subject to distance requirements: 25 feet from structures or combustible materials. Fires in approved containers/chimeneas require 15 feet. Fires must be constantly attended and have extinguishing equipment on hand.
Portland Fire Code 2021 and PF&R Administrative Rule FIR-3.08 govern recreational fires. Key requirements: recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material; fires in approved containers (chimeneas, portable fireplaces) must be at least 15 feet from structures (one- and two-family dwellings are exempt from the 15-foot rule for containers). Fire must be constantly attended. Minimum 4-A rated fire extinguisher or equivalent equipment (dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose) must be immediately available. During declared burn bans, all outdoor fires including fire pits are prohibited. Barbecue grills are exempt from burn bans.
Unsafe fires may result in citation under Fire Code. Burn ban violations: citation per FIR-12.01 Fee Schedule.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Multnomah County.
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