Schenectady, NY Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Schenectady, NY, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Governing code
- § 156-7.1, Chapter 156
- Allowed devices
- Grill, fireplace, hibachi, approved receptacle
- Backyard fire pit
- Only with Fire Department approval
- Supervision
- Competent adult, start to finish
- First-offense fine
- Up to $25
Summary
Schenectady makes it unlawful to kindle or keep any open fire unless it burns in an approved fireproof receptacle: a gas grill, fireplace, hibachi, Weber cooker, or a device the Fire Department approves. A backyard fire pit qualifies only with that approval, and every fire needs constant adult supervision.
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to kindle, make or keep a fire within or outside of any building in the City unless in an approved fireproof enclosure or receptacle.
(1) Any lawful fire within or outside of any building shall continuously be under the care of a competent adult from the time it is kindled until it is extinguished.
(2) Any lawful fire outside of any building shall not be kindled within a porch attached to a building or close enough to a building or structure so as to cause fire or smoke damage to such building or structure.
(3) An approved fireproof enclosure or receptacle shall include a gas grill, fireplace, hibachi, Weber cooker or any device which has received the approval of the Fire Department.
B. In no event shall this section be construed to permit the burning of garbage or any material which would produce noxious odors.
C. The Chief of the Department of Fire or his or her representative shall have the authority in all cases to prohibit the use of any fire-burning receptacle within or outside of any building.
D. A violation of Subsection A by any person is an offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $25 for the first offense, $50 for the second offense and $75 for each offense thereafter.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4990798; v11 updated 2026-04-13; through 04-13-2026).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 156-7.1 makes it unlawful to kindle, make, or keep a fire inside or outside any building unless it is contained in an approved fireproof enclosure or receptacle: gas grills, fireplaces, hibachis, Weber cookers, or any device the Fire Department has approved. A competent adult must tend any lawful fire continuously from the moment it is kindled until it is out, and no fire may be kindled on a porch or close enough to a building to cause fire or smoke damage. Burning garbage or any material that produces noxious odors is prohibited. The Chief of the Fire Department may prohibit the use of any fire-burning receptacle. Enforced by the Schenectady Fire Department.
Violations & Fines
A violation of Subsection A is an offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $25 for the first offense, $50 for the second offense, and $75 for each offense thereafter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Schenectady?
How close to my house can a fire be?
What is the penalty for an illegal open fire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Schenectady
How Schenectady compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·New York rules heatmap·Compare Schenectady to another location·View the New York fire regulations overview
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