Lake County, IL Outdoor Cooking: Smoker Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Barbecue pit
- Exempt from 50-ft bonfire rule
- Portable outdoor fireplace
- 15 ft from structure required
- Recreational fire
- 25 ft from structure required
- Attendance
- Fire must be constantly attended
- Max fine
- $500 per violation, weekly
Summary
In unincorporated Lake County, a backyard barbecue pit is exempt from the standard 50-foot bonfire clearance, but portable outdoor fireplaces must sit at least 15 feet from any structure and every open flame needs constant attendance.
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. ... 307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet (3,048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-15: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. 26-0618, passed 6-9-2026 | State legislation current through ILCS Pamphlet 2025 #5).
Full Breakdown
Lake County's Fire Code amendments (adopted under 55 ILCS 5/5-6002 through 5-6006 for unincorporated territory) exempt barbecue pits from the 50-foot bonfire setback that applies to other open fires, while portable outdoor fireplaces must stay 15 feet from a structure or combustible material unless serving a one- or two-family home. Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and portable fireplaces must be constantly attended, with a charged fire extinguisher or other extinguishing material on hand until fully out. Waukegan, North Chicago, Highland Park, Gurnee and Libertyville enforce their own fire codes instead.
Violations & Fines
Petty offense punishable by a fine up to $500; each week a violation continues after notice is a separate offense, enforced by Planning, Building & Development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a barbecue pit close to my house in unincorporated Lake County?
Does this county rule apply inside Waukegan or Highland Park?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lake County
Compare Lake County to another location·View the Illinois outdoor cooking overview
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