Fire pit rules in Winston-Salem, NC — also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances — cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Winston-Salem permits recreational fire pits under the NC Fire Code (Section 307) when fires are contained, attended, and set back at least 25 feet from structures. Portable gas and propane pits are allowed closer to buildings (15 feet) and are exempt from most open-burn restrictions.
Winston-Salem Fire Department enforces the NC Fire Prevention Code, which mirrors IFC Section 307.4.2 for recreational fires. Wood-burning pits must use only clean, dry, seasoned firewood. No yard debris, trash, treated lumber, or painted wood may be burned. The fire must be contained in a noncombustible ring no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall. A competent adult must remain on site with an extinguishing method (garden hose, bucket, or extinguisher) until the fire is fully out and cold. Setback: 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Propane/natural gas appliances with CSA-listed burners may be used on decks and closer to structures (15 feet). Fires must be extinguished if the Fire Marshal or NC Forest Service issues a burn ban, or if smoke creates a nuisance for neighbors.
Unsafe or unattended fires may be ordered extinguished by WSFD. Civil penalties start around $50 and escalate for repeat offenses. Reckless burning causing damage can trigger criminal charges under NCGS 14-136.
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