Saint Paul, MN Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)
Outdoor burning rules in Saint Paul, MN, also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance, set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Key Facts
- Open Burning
- Prohibited in city limits
- Yard Waste Burning
- Not allowed
- State Law
- MN Rules Ch. 7009 (MPCA)
- Special Permits
- Available but rarely granted
Summary
Open burning of yard waste, leaves, brush, and debris is prohibited in Saint Paul under the fire code and MPCA rules. Only recreational fires with clean wood are allowed.
OPEN BURNING Open burning requires a fire permit from the Department of Safety & Inspections. 1. Open Burning can be used for disposal, except that paper products and materials that may produce obnoxious smoke and odors cannot be burned. 2. Prior to ignition, the fire department must be notified at 651-224-7371. 3. Burning shall not be conducted within 50 feet of a building or other combustible material. 4. Burning may be conducted within 25 feet of a building or other combustible material if the pile size is no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.
Full Breakdown
Saint Paul prohibits open burning of leaves, brush, yard waste, construction debris, garbage, and other materials under the city fire code and MPCA open burning rules. This ban applies year-round and covers all residential, commercial, and industrial properties within city limits. Recreational fires using clean untreated wood in a fire pit are the only exception for residential properties (see fire-pit-rules). Open burning for land clearing, demolition, or agricultural purposes requires a special open-burning permit from the Saint Paul Fire Department, which is rarely granted within city limits. Minnesota Rules Chapter 7009 (MPCA air quality rules) reinforces the statewide ban on open burning in urban areas and authorizes the Pollution Control Agency to enforce violations. Burning trash or household waste is always illegal under both city and state law. Complaints about illegal burning can be reported through Saint Paul 311.
Violations & Fines
Illegal open burning can result in administrative citations from the fire department, fines, and potential misdemeanor charges. Under MN Rules Ch. 7009, MPCA can also assess separate penalties for air quality violations. Fire department response costs may be billed to the responsible party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn leaves or brush in my yard in Saint Paul?
What is the difference between open burning and a recreational fire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Saint Paul
How Saint Paul compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Saint Paul to another location·View the Minnesota fire regulations overview
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