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Howard County, MD Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Fire pit rules in Howard County, MD, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.

Key Facts

Setback (larger fires)
50 feet from structures
Maximum size
5 ft by 5 ft
Fuel
Seasoned dry firewood only
Attendance
Constantly attended by adult
Notify before lighting
Call 410-313-2200

Summary

Recreational, heating and cooking fires are allowed. Fires over 3 to 5 feet must sit at least 50 feet from any structure, cannot exceed 5 by 5 feet, keep a 10-foot safe area, be constantly attended, and burn only seasoned dry firewood. Call 410-313-2200 before lighting.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Howard County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

The fire shall be located at a minimum distance of 50 feet from any structure. The fire shall not be more than 5 ft. x 5 ft. in dimension. A safe area of at least 10 feet will be maintained around the fire.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Howard County permits recreational, heating and cooking fires without an application. For a larger fire (over 3 feet up to 5 feet), the county code requires a minimum 50-foot setback from any structure, a fire no larger than 5 by 5 feet, and a maintained 10-foot safe area. Fuel must be seasoned dry firewood ignited with a small amount of paper, never used for waste disposal. The fire must be constantly attended by a competent adult, with extinguishment means nearby. Before lighting, call Communications at 410-313-2200 and notify them again once extinguished. No fire during winds above 10 MPH or a declared fire ban.

Violations & Fines

Non-compliant recreational fires may result in citations and/or fines. Fires must be extinguished immediately during high winds or a declared open-fire ban.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far from my house can I have a bonfire?
A recreational fire over 3 feet must be at least 50 feet from any structure, no larger than 5 by 5 feet, and constantly attended by a competent adult.
Do I have to call anyone before a backyard fire?
For fires over 3 feet, yes, call Howard County Communications at 410-313-2200 before lighting and again after the fire is extinguished.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Howard County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsFireworksHeavy RestrictionsWildfire ZonesSome RestrictionsSmoke DetectorsSome RestrictionsOutdoor BurningSignificant RestrictionsBrush ClearanceSome RestrictionsPropane StorageSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome Restrictions

All Howard County rules

How Howard County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Howard County to another location·View the Maryland fire regulations overview

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