Outdoor burning rules in Aurora, CO — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Open burning of trash, leaves, and yard waste is prohibited in Aurora, and recreational fires must use approved containers with limits on size and fuel.
Aurora Fire Rescue prohibits open burning of refuse, leaves, landscaping debris, and construction waste within city limits. Recreational fires are allowed only in approved containers such as manufactured fire pits with spark screens or permanent masonry pits, with a maximum pile size generally 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high. Fuel must be clean seasoned wood or charcoal, never treated lumber, pallets, or yard waste. Fires must be at least 15 to 25 feet from structures and combustibles, constantly attended, and fully extinguished before leaving. The Tri-County Health Department and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment periodically issue ozone action and air quality advisories that suspend residential burning. During red flag warnings, Stage 1 or Stage 2 fire restrictions, or city-declared bans, all outdoor burning including recreational fires can be prohibited.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Aurora code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Arapahoe County.
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