Knowledge Base

The 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) mainly requires permitting of burns such as bonfires, silvicultural, or prescribed type fires used to mitigate land/wildlife. Thus, most recreational fires do not require a permit. With that said, the IFC mostly regulates with the intent to protect the public from irresponsible burning when it endangers the safety, health or welfare of persons near the burn site. Due to the previous version of the fire code, the 2021 IFC has made strides to not intervene in as many of the outdoor fires that citizens tended to incorrectly believe or viewed as open burning (e.g., recreational fires, bonfires, charcoal burners, etc.). Instead, the fire codes approach is to prohibit fires that are hazardous in nature due to measurable factors, such as weather (e.g., wind, temperature, relative humidity) or available fuel sources. So, as long as a fire does not create or add to a hazardous situation then it is permissible. When a fire creates a hazardous condition such as the potential for igniting exposures or is unsafe because of the atmospheric conditions, the IFC gives the authority to have the fire extinguished. Below is a list of some of the most common fire safety guidelines that should be considered:   

Fire Safety Guidelines

• Approved Containers: Keep fires at least 15 feet from structures/combustibles, following manufacturer instructions for additional safeguards.
  • Examples: patio fireplaces purchased from home improvement retailers such as firepits, chimineas, etc.
• Fire Pits: Maintain a distance of 25 feet from structures, with a pile size up to 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
• No Trash or Debris: Only burn appropriate materials. No combustibles.
  
• Fire Safety Practices: Follow basic camper fire safety guidelines.
• Location: Avoid kindling fires where they could endanger structures or ignite nearby combustibles.
  
• Attendance: Always attend to fires until fully extinguished.
  
• Extinguishment Sources: Have water, sand, or dirt readily available.

For your convenience, here is a link to the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) and amendments.