Fire Regulations in Maine (2026)
11 rules on the books across Maine, 3 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Fire Pits & Backyard Fires
Rules for fire pits, chimineas, and recreational backyard fires, setback distances from structures, size and fuel limits, attendance requirements, and burn-ban days.
Maine: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsMaine Forest Service rules under 12 MRS Chapter 805 exempt small recreational campfires under 3 feet in diameter on a…
Read full rule →Portland
Some RestrictionsCampfires are allowed in Portland only with a valid burning permit under Sec. 10-92. Permitted fires must comply with…
Read full rule →Fireworks
Which types of consumer fireworks are legal, when they can be used, and the fines for setting off illegal fireworks.
Maine: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsPer 8 MRS § 221-A, consumer fireworks meeting the federal 27 CFR 555.11 definition are lawful statewide for persons…
Read full rule →Portland
Heavy RestrictionsPortland Code of Ordinances Sec. 17-32 bans using, possessing with intent to use, selling or offering to sell consumer…
Read full rule →Skowhegan
Some RestrictionsIn the Town of Skowhegan, Maine, consumer fireworks can be used from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with hours stretched to…
Read full rule →Brush Clearance
Requirements to clear dry vegetation around your property for wildfire prevention, including deadlines and the distance you need to maintain.
Outdoor Burning
Rules for open flames outdoors including bonfires, yard waste burning, and cooking fires. Some cities ban all outdoor burning year-round.
Maine: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsPer 12 MRS Chapter 805, the Maine Forest Service requires a permit for nearly all open burning of brush, debris, and…
Read full rule →Portland
Significant RestrictionsPortland's Code of Ordinances bans burning or incinerating solid waste anywhere in the city, with narrow exceptions for…
Read full rule →Smoke Detectors
Requirements for smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in homes, including how many you need and where they must be installed.
Propane Storage
Limits on size and location of residential propane tanks, including setback distances from buildings, property lines, and ignition sources.
Maine: statewide
StatewideSome RestrictionsUnder 32 MRS Chapter 139 (Maine Fuel Board), persons who install, service, or set propane tanks and outside piping must…
Read full rule →Dixmont
Some RestrictionsDixmont's Site Plan Review Ordinance bars storing flammable or explosive gases in bulk above ground unless they sit at…
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