Fire pit rules in Tacoma, WA — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Tacoma allows recreational fire pits with restrictions. Fire pits must be in approved containers, at least 25 feet from structures, and attended at all times. Only clean, dry wood is permitted. Fires must be extinguished during PSCAA burn bans.
Recreational fires are permitted in approved non-combustible fire pits or containers. The fire must be kept small (typically 3 feet diameter or less), at least 25 feet from structures and combustible materials. Only dry, untreated wood is allowed — no trash, yard waste, or treated lumber. An adult must attend the fire at all times. Check PSCAA for current burn ban status before lighting.
Unattended fires or fires during burn bans result in citations from Tacoma Fire Department. Property damage from fire pit use creates additional liability.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle fire pit rules.
See how Tacoma's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.