Outdoor burning rules in Loveland, 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 in Loveland and surrounding Larimer County requires a burn permit issued through Larimer County. LFRA states: 'Burn permits ensure the use of open burning is done legally and in a coordinated manner with the Fire Departments.' Below 6,000 feet of elevation, permits are valid for 90 days year-round; above 6,000 feet, the burn season runs October 1 through May 1 only. On the day of a burn, the operator must notify dispatch at 970-962-2800 before ignition. Burning is prohibited during active Larimer County or LFRA burn restrictions and on Red Flag warning days. Recreational fires at one- and two-family homes are a separate, no-permit category (see fire-pit-rules).
LFRA's open burning permit program is administered jointly with Larimer County. LFRA states: 'Most open burning in Larimer County requires a permit.' Applications are submitted through the Larimer County website. Permits below 6,000 feet of elevation are valid for 90 days; above 6,000 feet, the burn season runs October 1 to May 1. On the day of the burn, the operator must call LFRA dispatch at 970-962-2800 before lighting the fire so that fire department resources are aware. Burning of trash, garbage, construction materials, plastics, treated wood, recyclables, leaves, and yard debris is prohibited as a means of disposal. The adopted 2012 International Fire Code (LMC Chapter 15.28) provides the legal framework. Outdoor burning is suspended during Larimer County or LFRA-imposed burn restrictions and during National Weather Service Red Flag warnings. Recreational cooking fires and properly contained backyard fire pits at one- and two-family residences are exempt from the burn permit requirement provided they comply with LFRA's recreational fire rules (3 ft max diameter, 2 ft max height, 15 ft setback, clean dry wood, adult supervision).
Burning without a required permit, burning prohibited materials, or burning during restrictions/Red Flag warnings is a violation of the adopted 2012 IFC (LMC Chapter 15.28) and is enforced by LFRA and Larimer County. LFRA may order an unlawful fire extinguished and refer the matter for citation. Report illegal burning to police dispatch 970-667-2151 or LFRA Community Safety 970-962-2471.
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