Kootenai County, ID Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Kootenai County, ID, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Permit for fire pit
- Not required (recreation/cooking)
- Maximum pit size
- 3 feet in diameter
- Distance from structures
- At least 25 feet
- Clearance around pit
- 10 feet, no vegetation
- On scene
- Charged hose or shovel
Summary
In the unincorporated county, recreational and cooking fire pits need no permit but must be no larger than 3 feet across, kept at least 25 feet from any structure, with 10 feet of clearance around the pit, attended at all times, and a water hose or shovel on scene.
Pit can be no larger than 3 feet in diameter. Fires shall not be within twenty-five (25) feet of a structure. A minimum of 10 feet around pit shall be maintained free of grass, shrubbery, weeds, vegetation, and any other combustible material, including overhanging limbs from trees.
Full Breakdown
Kootenai County Fire & Rescue rules for recreation/cooking fires: 'Pit can be no larger than 3 feet in diameter,' 'Fires shall not be within twenty-five (25) feet of a structure,' and a minimum 10-foot radius must be kept free of grass, shrubbery, weeds and overhanging limbs. Only clean untreated wood, cardboard, paper, leaves and dry yard debris may be burned; no treated wood, plastics, rubber, garbage or trade waste. All fires must be attended and put out cold to the touch before leaving. Rules and district boundaries vary; confirm with your local fire district (the county has several).
Violations & Fines
Escaped or unlawful fires can bring fire-district enforcement and cost recovery for suppression; burning prohibited materials violates state air-quality rules (IDAPA 58.01.01).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
What can I burn in a fire pit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kootenai County
How Kootenai County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Kootenai County to another location·View the Idaho fire regulations overview
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