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Florida Statewide Rule

Florida Fire Prevention Code on Recreational Fires

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Florida (2026)

Key Facts

Statute
Fla. Stat. 633.202
Code
NFPA 1 Section 10.11
Pile Size
3 ft diameter, 2 ft high
Setback
25 ft from structures
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Florida Senate

Summary

Florida regulates outdoor recreational fires through the Florida Fire Prevention Code (NFPA 1), which applies uniformly statewide and preempts inconsistent local fire-code provisions.

(4) The State Fire Marshal shall update, by rule adopted pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54, the Florida Fire Prevention Code every 3 years. Once initially adopted and subsequently updated, the Florida Fire Prevention Code shall be adopted for use statewide without adoptions by local governments. When updating the Florida Fire Prevention Code, the State Fire Marshal shall consider changes made by the national model fire codes incorporated into the Florida Fire Prevention Code, the State Fire Marshal's own interpretations, declaratory statements, appellate decisions, and approved statewide and local technical amendments.

Full Breakdown

Section 633.202, Florida Statutes, requires the State Fire Marshal to adopt the Florida Fire Prevention Code, which incorporates NFPA 1. Section 10.11 of NFPA 1 limits recreational fires to piles no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, requires a 25-foot setback from structures, prohibits use of flammable liquids, and requires constant attendance plus an extinguishing means. Local governments may adopt only stricter administrative procedures, not weaker substantive standards.

Violations & Penalties

Violations of the Florida Fire Prevention Code are punishable as second-degree misdemeanors under Section 633.228 and may also incur civil fines from local fire officials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a backyard fire pit in Florida?
Yes, if the pile is no larger than 3 feet wide by 2 feet high, set back 25 feet from any structure, attended by an adult, and extinguishing means are immediately available.
Are gas fire pits treated the same as wood?
Portable gas-fueled appliances listed to ANSI Z21.97 have shorter setback requirements (typically 10 feet from combustibles) under NFPA 1, but installation must follow the manufacturer's listing.

Sources

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