New Jersey Uniform Fire Code Sets Fire Pit Standards

Under N.J.A.C. 5:70 (adopting the International Fire Code), recreational fires must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall, burn only clean wood or approved fuels, sit at least 25 feet from any structure (15 feet for portable outdoor fireplaces), and be attended with extinguishment means available. Burning of leaves, refuse, or treated wood is prohibited. The local fire official enforces the standard but may not authorize larger or closer fires than the code allows.

Non-compliant fires can be ordered extinguished and penalties under N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.12 can reach $5,000 per day; nuisance smoke may also trigger NJDEP air-pollution complaints.