Rockville, MD Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)

Montgomery County Code Chapter 3 and Maryland regulations COMAR 26.11.07 prohibit all open burning without a permit in Montgomery County, including within Rockville city limits. Fines of $500 per day may be imposed for unauthorized burning. Recreational fires, including campfires, fire bowls, chimineas, and in-ground fire pits, are permitted with restrictions. Recreational fires must be kept at least 25 feet from any building or structure. A clear space free of ignitable materials at least 10 feet in diameter must be maintained around the fire. All recreational fires must be constantly attended by a responsible person at least 18 years old until fully extinguished. A garden hose or other extinguishing equipment must be nearby and readily available. Only aged, dried wood may be burned. Burning construction materials, brush, trash, leaves, or treated lumber is prohibited. Fires are not permitted on Code Orange or Code Red air quality days. Open burning is completely banned from June 1 through August 31 each year except for fires set by public officers with approval from the control officer. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service responds to reports of illegal burning.