Springfield, IL Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Springfield, IL, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Springfield City Code Ch. 94 (Intl. Fire Code adopted)
- Setback (structure/combustibles)
- 25 ft fire pit / 15 ft portable fireplace
- Max size
- 3 ft diameter, 2 ft height
- Allowed fuel
- Dry wood or charcoal only
- Allowed hours
- 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Summary
Springfield treats backyard fire pits as recreational fires under Chapter 94 of the city code (which adopts the International Fire Code). The Fire Safety Division requires fire pits to be located 25 feet from any structure or combustible materials (15 feet for portable outdoor fireplaces), capped at a 3-foot diameter and 2-foot height, burning only dry wood or charcoal.
Fire pits are considered recreational fires. They should be 25 feet from a structure or combustible materials. For portable outdoor fireplaces, the distance is 15 feet. (Commercial properties only/single family and duplex are exempt for distances) Both types of open burning (for All properties) must meet the several conditions that follow: Must use only dry wood or charcoal fuel; Must be kept to a manageable size (3 foot diameter or less/2 foot height or less); Must have extinguishing capability readily available (garden hose/fire extinguisher); Must be constantly attended until completely extinguished; Must be kept between the hours of 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.; Burning is not allowed during high winds (in excess of 20 mph); Burning is not allowed during times of high fire danger; There is no imminent health hazard to persons in the area.
Full Breakdown
Springfield's Fire Safety Division classifies fire pits as 'recreational fires' regulated under city ordinance Chapter 94 and the adopted International Fire Code. A fire pit must sit at least 25 feet from a structure or combustible materials; a portable outdoor fireplace must sit at least 15 feet away (single-family and duplex residential properties are exempt from the setback distances, which apply to commercial properties). Every recreational fire must use only dry wood or charcoal fuel, be kept to a manageable size of 3-foot diameter or less and 2-foot height or less, have extinguishing capability (garden hose or fire extinguisher) readily available, and be constantly attended until completely extinguished. Burning is allowed only between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., is prohibited during winds in excess of 20 mph and during times of high fire danger, and must not create an imminent health hazard to persons in the area. Burning of yard waste, garbage, and construction materials is prohibited.
Violations & Fines
Recreational fires that violate the size, fuel, setback, attendance, or hours conditions are subject to abatement and citation by the Springfield Fire Safety Division under Chapter 94 and the adopted International Fire Code; the fire department may order the fire extinguished.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far from my house does a fire pit need to be in Springfield?
How big can my fire pit fire be?
Can I burn leaves or trash in my fire pit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Springfield
How Springfield compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Springfield to another location·View the Illinois fire regulations overview
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