Tomball, TX Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Tomball, TX, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Portable Fires
- Permitted in rear yards with attendance
- Setback
- 15 feet from structures and property lines
- Trash Burning
- Prohibited within city limits
- Fire Code
- International Fire Code as adopted
Summary
Tomball permits small recreational fires in backyards under the International Fire Code as adopted locally. Portable fire bowls, chimineas, and cooking fires must follow setback and attendance requirements enforced by the Tomball Fire Marshal.
Sec. 352.081. REGULATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING. (a) In this section, "drought conditions" means the existence of a long-term deficit of moisture creating atypically severe conditions with increased wildfire occurrence as defined by the Texas Forest Service through the use of the Keetch-Byram Drought Index ... (c) The commissioners court of a county by order may prohibit or restrict outdoor burning in general or outdoor burning of a particular substance in all or part of the unincorporated area of the county if: (1) drought conditions have been determined to exist as provided by Subsection (b); or (2) the commissioners court makes a finding that circumstances present in all or part of the unincorporated area create a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning.
Full Breakdown
The City of Tomball regulates recreational fires under the International Fire Code as adopted by ordinance. Small outdoor fires for cooking or warmth in portable containers such as chimineas, fire bowls, and charcoal grills are permitted in rear yards provided they are attended at all times and located at least 15 feet from structures, property lines, and combustible materials. Fires must be kept to a manageable size and extinguished immediately if wind conditions create a hazard. Burning of trash, yard waste, lumber, or treated wood is prohibited within city limits. Propane and natural gas appliances designed for outdoor use are generally permitted without additional restrictions beyond manufacturer clearances. The Tomball Fire Marshal's Office enforces fire safety regulations. Contact Development Services at (281) 290-1012 for questions.
Violations & Fines
Violations of fire safety rules may result in citations and fines through Tomball Municipal Court. The Fire Marshal may order immediate extinguishment of any fire deemed a hazard. Burning prohibited materials can result in fines up to $2,000 per offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Tomball?
Can I burn yard waste in Tomball?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tomball
How Tomball compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Tomball to another location·View the Texas fire regulations overview
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Fire Pits & Backyard Fires in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle fire pits & backyard fires.