Fire pit rules in Saint Paul, MN — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Saint Paul allows recreational fire pits without a permit. Fires must be under 3 feet wide by 2 feet high, set back 25 feet from structures, and burn only clean untreated wood.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in Saint Paul without a permit under the Saint Paul Fire Code (Title VII). The fire must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. Fire pits or rings must be set back at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Portable fire pits and free-standing containers must be at least 15 feet from structures. Only clean, unpainted, untreated wood, charcoal, or coal may be burned -- no trash, brush, leaves, construction debris, or paper products. The fire must be constantly attended by a competent person, and a means of extinguishment (garden hose, fire extinguisher, or bucket of water) must be readily available at all times. There is no curfew on fire pit hours in Saint Paul, but fires that create a nuisance through excessive smoke may be ordered extinguished by the fire department. Manufactured gas or propane fire pits that produce no visible smoke are also permitted and generally have fewer setback concerns.
Fires that violate size, setback, or material restrictions may be ordered extinguished immediately by the Saint Paul Fire Department. Repeated violations or fires that cause property damage can result in misdemeanor charges under the fire code.
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See how Saint Paul's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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