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Washoe County, NV Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Fire pit rules in Washoe County, NV, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.

Key Facts

Max size
3 ft diameter, 2 ft high
Clearance
25 ft from combustibles
Fuel
Clean wood, not rubbish
Permit at homes
Not required
Code
IFC 307.4.2 / 307.5

Summary

A backyard recreational fire in the TMFPD is limited to 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, must burn only clean fuel (not rubbish), and must stay at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. No permit is needed at homes.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Washoe County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material.

View official code

Full Breakdown

TMFPD defines a recreational fire as an outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish, not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill/pit, or fire ring, with a fuel area no greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high (IFC 307.4.2). Recreational fires must not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material (IFC 307.5). No permit is required at one-, two-, and multi-family dwellings. Because Washoe is a wildfire-prone county, TMFPD routinely imposes summer fire restrictions that suspend all wood and charcoal recreational fires, allowing only propane, electric, and pellet devices.

Violations & Fines

Conducting a non-conforming recreational fire, or any open fire during an active TMFPD restriction, can result in a citation and liability for suppression costs if a wildfire results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far from my house can I have a campfire?
At least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, and the fire must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high under TMFPD's recreational fire rule.
Can I burn trash in my backyard fire?
No. Recreational fires may only burn clean materials other than rubbish; burning trash, plastics, or treated wood is prohibited.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washoe County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsSmoke DetectorsSome RestrictionsOutdoor BurningSome RestrictionsWildfire ZonesSome RestrictionsBrush ClearanceSome RestrictionsFireworksHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Washoe County rules

How Washoe County compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Washoe County to another location·View the Nevada fire regulations overview

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