Chatham County, GA Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Chatham County, GA, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Governing code
- Chatham County Code Sec. 21-306
- Fire pit size
- Under 48 inches in diameter
- Purpose
- Personal enjoyment and recreation only
- Containment
- Structure must safely hold fire
- Fuel
- Only your own residence's materials
Summary
Chatham County Code Sec. 21-306 (amended 2020) lets residents in or within a mile of a city or subdivision use fire pits less than 48 inches in diameter for recreation, provided the fire is safely contained by a structure able to hold it and burns only the resident's own materials.
Fire pits less than 48 inches in diameter, used solely for personal enjoyment and recreation when such a fire is contained safely by a structure sufficient enough to hold the fire therein.
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 21-306(2)(a), a recreational fire pit is an allowed exception to the county's open-burning prohibition when it is less than 48 inches in diameter, used solely for personal enjoyment and recreation, and contained safely by a structure sufficient to hold the fire. Only the resident's own materials may be burned. The fire must be attended; Georgia Forestry Commission guidance for outdoor fires also advises keeping the fire 25 feet from woodlands and 50 feet from structures and attended until fully out. Georgia's state minimum fire code (IFC 2018) applies, and a fire official may shut down any fire that becomes a nuisance or hazard. Incorporated cities such as Savannah, Tybee Island and Pooler may set their own rules.
Violations & Fines
Violating Sec. 21-306 is a county Code offense punishable, on conviction, by a fine up to $500 and/or up to 30 days, with each day a separate offense (Sec. 21-309). A fire official may extinguish a hazardous fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backyard fire pits allowed in unincorporated Chatham County?
Is there a size limit on my fire pit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chatham County
How Chatham County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Chatham County to another location·View the Georgia fire regulations overview
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