Recreational fires are defined as an outdoor fire where wood from trees, small branches, brush, or charcoal is burned for the purpose of pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes. Unless the fire is contained within an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill or barbecue pit it shall not exceed a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. Recreational fires do not require a permit under the Minnesota State Fire Code, but the following conditions must be met:
- Recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from all buildings or combustible materials. Combustible materials are things such as wood, paper, and plastics. Portable outdoor fireplaces have a slightly different requirement and must be a least 15 feet from all combustibles and follow manufactures safety requirements. More detailed information on portable outdoor fireplaces can be found below.
- Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure should be eliminated prior to burning.
- Recreational fires shall not be located within 10 feet from stationary/fixed LP-Gas containers.
- The fire must be constantly attended.
- A garden hose hooked to a reliable water source or a fire extinguisher with a 4A rating must be immediately accessible.
- The wood or charcoal should be dry to lessen the smoke being produced. Prohibited materials include treated lumber, leaves, construction debris, garbage, plastic material, and yard waste.
- The Fire Department may order extinguishment at any time, if it is determined that it presents a nuisance or hazard.
What may be enjoyable for you may not be enjoyable for your neighbors. Be a good neighbor and don't have a recreational fire on breezy days that will spread the smoke through the neighborhood or your neighbor’s house.
