Saint Paul, MN Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Saint Paul allows backyard recreational fires for warmth, cooking, and enjoyment under the city fire code without requiring a permit. The fire must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. A fire in a permanent pit or ring must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Portable fire containers and manufactured fire pits must maintain at least 15 feet of clearance from structures. Only clean, unpainted, untreated wood, charcoal, and coal are permitted as fuel. Burning trash, leaves, brush, cardboard, treated lumber, or any other materials is prohibited.

A competent person must attend the fire at all times, and extinguishing equipment such as a garden hose, fire extinguisher, or bucket of water must be immediately available. There is no time-of-day restriction on backyard fires in Saint Paul. However, the fire department may order any fire extinguished if it creates excessive smoke, constitutes a nuisance, or poses a safety hazard due to weather conditions such as high winds. Propane and natural gas fire features are also permitted and produce less smoke than wood-burning fires.