Fire pit rules in Tucson, AZ β also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances β cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in Tucson with 25-foot clearance from structures and combustibles. No permit required for recreational fires. Gas/propane fire features exempt from burn bans. Open wood-burning fires subject to Pima County PDEQ no-burn day advisories.
Tucson allows recreational fires in portable or permanent fire pits under specific conditions. Pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, or combustible material, have a maximum diameter of 3 feet, and burn only clean, dry firewood β no trash, treated lumber, or yard waste. An adult must attend the fire at all times with an extinguishing method nearby. During May-September, the fire department may declare burn bans that prohibit all outdoor fires. The arid desert climate of Southwest influences the frequency and duration of fire restrictions.
Violations of fire pit rules carry fines of $100β$500. Fires during a declared burn ban are misdemeanors with fines up to $1,000 and potential criminal liability for any resulting damage.
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. Tucson Code Chapter 16 (Neighborhood Pr...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, height, lighting hours, and blower noise are governed by HOA CC&Rs. Tu...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Timing, brightness, and animated displays are governed by HOA CC&Rs in master-planne...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs through the Planning and Development S...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no specific city ordinance regulating residential smokers or pellet grills. Smoke nuisance may be addressed under Tucson Code Section 16-31 (exces...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson Fire Department enforces the International Fire Code with local amendments. Per Tucson's BBQ and Open Flame Devices handout, 20-lb propane cylinders m...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pima County.
See how other cities in Pima County handle fire pit rules.
See how Tucson'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.