Recreational Fires

Richfield Fire Ordinance
 

Recreational fires in Richfield do not require a permit.  While no permit is required, there is a city ordinance that governs recreational fires.  A permit is required for the construction of a permanent fire pit or other fireplace.

Several agencies are concerned with fire safety and public health.  Highlights of the Minnesota Uniform Fire Code and other State and local regulations are cited below.

What is a "Recreational Fire?"

A Recreational Fire is the burning of materials other than rubbish where fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace or barbecue pit and with a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking or similar purposes.

Permits are not required for Recreational Fires.

What can be burned?

NO RUBBISH MAY BE BURNED. Rubbish includes yard waste and waste material from the construction or demolition of buildings. Only "fireplace wood" is acceptable fuel. The size of the pile of fuel must be less than 3 feet in diameter and less than 2 feet in height. Flammable liquids (i.e. gasoline, etc.) shall not be burned or used as starter fluid. If commercial combustible liquid starter fluids are used, they must be used in a safe manner per manufacturer's instructions.

How close is safe?

• If contained in an approved fire ring or approved appliance, the fire must be at least 25 feet from any structure.

• If not contained within a fire ring, a fire must be at least 50 feet from any structure.
• Portable fireplaces, and other manufactured burning appliances (i.e., grills) shall be used only outdoors, on noncombustible surface, in accordance with manufacturer's warnings and instructions but no closer than 15 feet to a structure or other combustibles.

Other regulations

The hours of burning allowed from 3 pm to 11 pm

The fire may not be ignited before 3 pm and must be fully extinguished by 11 pm unless otherwise approved in advance by the Fire Chief or his designee.

The fire must be constantly attended by a competent adult person until such fire is extinguished.

The attending person shall have a garden hose connected to a water supply, or other fire extinguishing equipment readily available for use.

You are liable for damages and Fire Department costs that may result from having a recreational fire.

At any time, the Fire Chief or his representative may order any fire extinguished when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make the fire hazardous or undesirable.

Building permits are required for the construction of permanent outdoor fireplaces and barbecues.

 

For further information, call the Richfield Fire Marshall at 612-243-4502.