Outdoor burning rules in Chicago, IL — 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 prohibited in Chicago per MCC and Illinois EPA (415 ILCS 5). Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed at single-family homes. No burning during air quality alerts.
Chicago MCC (Title 15) and Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5) prohibit open burning of refuse and debris. Small recreational fires in approved portable fire pits may be permitted at single-family and townhome properties subject to fire code requirements. Chicago Fire Department (CFD) enforces. Air quality alerts ban all outdoor burning.
Violations of the open burning prohibition can result in fines from the City of Chicago and enforcement by the Illinois EPA. Improper LPG storage carries fines up to $500.
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Landmark Commission approval is required only for perma...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential holiday inflatables. Inflator-motor noise after hours is enforced under MCC Section 8-32 (noise), and sidewa...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance regulating residential holiday light display windows or brightness. Property maintenance complaints are handled under MCC Section 13...
Chicago, IL
Chicago requires Department of Buildings permits for outdoor kitchens with gas piping, electrical wiring, or plumbing under MCC Chapter 14A. Trade work must ...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specifically regulating residential smokers or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance is enforced under Chicago Municipal Code Section 11-...
Chicago, IL
Chicago Fire Code Section 14F-3-307.5 prohibits charcoal and gas grills on balconies and within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle outdoor burning.
See how Chicago's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.