Winston-Salem, NC Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Max height
- 3 feet
- Max diameter
- 2 feet
- Setback from structures
- At least 25 feet
- Fuel allowed
- Dry/seasoned wood only, no accelerants
- Penalty
- Up to $500 fine, class 3 misdemeanor
Summary
Winston-Salem exempts outdoor cooking and recreational fires from its bonfire permit requirement only if they're confined to a fire pit or chiminea set at least 25 feet from any structure and capped at three feet high and two feet wide.
a "bonfire or rubbish fire" shall not include fires used solely for outdoor cooking and other recreational purposes when such fires are: (i) confined to a container (such as a fire pit or chiminea) which is subject to approval by the fire chief and/or their designee; (ii) located at least 25 feet away from any structure; ... and (v) are limited in size to no more than three feet in height and two feet in diameter.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 102 | Personnel: Supplement 96 | Water and Sewer: Supplement 56 | Solid Waste: Supplement 15).
Full Breakdown
Under city code, any bonfire or rubbish fire on private or public property requires a permit unless it qualifies as recreational outdoor cooking. A fire pit or chiminea is exempt from that permit only when the fire chief or a designee has approved the container, it sits at least 25 feet from any structure, is lit with dry wood or kindling (no accelerants, garbage, or garden clippings), burns only seasoned wood, and stays within three feet in height and two feet in diameter. Fires producing nuisance smoke, or burning during a weather-related burn restriction, remain prohibited regardless of size.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 22-6, including exceeding the size or setback limits, is a class 3 misdemeanor under G.S. 14-4, punishable by a fine of up to $500.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Winston-Salem?
Can I burn leaves or garden clippings in my fire pit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Winston-Salem
How Winston-Salem compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Winston-Salem to another location·View the North Carolina fire regulations overview
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