Warren, MI Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)

Section 13-52 lists open burning allowed without prior notification or a permit, provided it is constantly attended, and item (2) covers outdoor fireplaces. , and the unit must be used according to the manufacturer's specifications. The section explains that store-bought fire pits and chimeneas are generally acceptable if built of metal, ceramic, or brick and mortar, with a solid top raised on legs off the ground, and fitted with a spark arrestor made of iron, heavy wire mesh, or other non-combustible material with openings no larger than one-half inch, mounted on the top or sides; no fuel may stick out of the top or protrude from the sides.

Section 13-52(1) separately covers barbecues cooking food for human consumption, limited to charcoal briquettes, LP-gas, or natural gas fuel, without the fireplace hour restriction. Section 13-52(5) requires at least one person over 18 to attend any fire at all times; it must never be left unattended. Location matters too: Section 13-55 requires open burning, including fire pits not in an approved container, to stay at least 50 feet from any structure, dropping to 15 feet if the fire is in an approved container such as a compliant pit or chiminea. Prohibited fuels under Section 13-52(6), including trash, leaves, grass, and garbage, apply equally to fire pits.