Outdoor burning rules in Washington, DC — 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 is prohibited in DC under 20 DCMR 604.1. Exceptions exist only for firefighter training, recreational cooking, and approved worker heating devices. Charcoal grills are banned on balconies and within 10 feet of buildings under 12-H DCMR 308.1.4.
DC's open burning prohibition under 20 DCMR 604.1 bans all open fires except for limited exceptions: firefighter training, recreational cooking (barbecues on ground level with proper clearance), and approved portable heating devices for outdoor workers. Charcoal and open-flame cooking devices are prohibited on balconies or within 10 feet of any building per 12-H DCMR 308.1.4. An exception exists for natural gas grills on non-combustible surfaces located 10 or more feet from combustible construction. Sky lanterns are prohibited under 12-H DCMR 308.1.6.3. Enforcement is by the DC Fire Marshal through FEMS. Leaf burning, brush burning, and bonfires are not permitted anywhere in the District.
Violations of open burning regulations carry civil fines. Fires causing property damage or endangering life may result in criminal charges.
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See how Washington's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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