Showing ordinances that apply to Merrifield, VA
Merrifield is an unincorporated community (population 20,488) in Fairfax County, Virginia. Because Merrifield is not an incorporated city, it does not have its own municipal code. Instead, Fairfax County ordinances apply directly to properties here. The fire pit rules rules below are the ones that govern your area.
Portable fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces are permitted in Fairfax County. Under Fire Prevention Code §307.4.4, they may not be stored on a balcony or deck of a multi-family structure or within 15 feet of combustible construction, except for detached single-family and townhouses.
The Fire Prevention Code defines portable outdoor fireplaces (including chimineas and fire pits) as portable, solid-fuel-burning devices. For residential single-family use, setback from balconies/decks restriction does not apply. Recreational fire rules still govern use (≤3 ft fuel diameter, 25 ft from structures). Only dry, seasoned firewood should be burned; refuse burning is prohibited.
Open burning violation: $250 to $500. Violating 4 PM Law: up to $500. Negligent fire: criminal liability possible.
See how Merrifield's fire pit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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