Tarrant County, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Tarrant County, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Permit Required
- No (residential)
- During Burn Ban
- Exempt for social use
- County Fire Code
- Commercial only
- HOAs
- May have restrictions
Summary
Fire pits for social gatherings are generally permitted in unincorporated Tarrant County, even during burn bans. No county permit is required. The Tarrant County Fire Code applies to commercial properties but not to residential fire pits in unincorporated areas.
Outdoor Burning [...] If burning is allowed, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Chapter 111, Subchapter B, governs outdoor burning in the State of Texas. The Tarrant County Fire Marshal's Office reminds you that if you conduct an outside burn, you must observe the following requirements: Burn only in the unincorporated areas of Tarrant County. Contact the Tarrant County Regional Communications at 817-232-9800 on the day you plan to burn to register your address and to confirm it is an allowable burn day. The Tarrant County Regional Communications is open 24/7. The party responsible for the burn must be present at all times and remains liable for damages. Begin burning no earlier than one hour after sunrise, and end the same day no later than one hour before sunset – NO BURNING AT NIGHT. Make sure the smoke does not blow towards a neighbor's house or onto a road. The burn must be downwind and at least 300 feet from structures on adjacent properties. Only burn brush, tree limbs, grass clippings, leaves or household trash. The material MUST be generated from the property. NO HAULING IN. NO BURNING OF CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL, HEAVY OILS OR CHEMICAL WASTES. No burning if wind speeds (either constant or gusts) are greater than 23 mph. To conduct prescribed burns, you must contact the Tarrant County Fire Marshal's Office for approval.
Full Breakdown
Residential fire pits in unincorporated Tarrant County do not require a county permit. During burn bans, fire pits for social gatherings are explicitly exempted along with cooking and welding. The Tarrant County Fire Code (adopted under Court Order) applies to commercial buildings, public buildings, and multifamily dwellings of 4+ units, not single-family residential fire pits. Standard safety practices apply: maintain safe distance from structures, never leave unattended, have water or extinguisher nearby. HOA deed restrictions may have additional fire pit rules.
Violations & Fines
No county fire pit violations for residential use. Commercial properties must comply with Tarrant County Fire Code. Reckless fire that spreads may result in criminal charges under state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Tarrant County?
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Tarrant County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tarrant County
How Tarrant County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Tarrant County to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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