Fire Pit Regulations in Arkansas (AR)
Arkansas is rated Lenient for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 38/100. No state-level permit is required for residential fire pits in Arkansas. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure. The maximum fire pit diameter is 48 inches. Open burning is allowed with restrictions. Burn bans are seasonal.
Full Fire Pit Regulations Summary for Arkansas
| Permit Required | No |
| Setback Distance | 25 feet |
| Maximum Diameter | 48 inches |
| Burn Ban Frequency | Seasonal |
| Open Burning Allowed | Yes |
| Strictness Rating | Lenient (38/100) |
| Effective Date | 2025-01-01 |
Detailed Regulations
Arkansas allows recreational fire pits without a permit in most areas. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. The Arkansas Forestry Commission may issue county-level burn bans during dry conditions, typically in late summer and fall. Burning of household waste is regulated separately. Fire pits must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before leaving.
Fire Pit Regulations by City in Arkansas
Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. Even though Arkansas does not require a state-level permit, some cities may have their own permit requirements. Below are fire pit details for 3 cities in Arkansas.
| City | Permit | Setback | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little Rock | No | 25 ft | Recreational fire pits allowed without permit. Must follow 25-foot setback rule. City may impose additional burn bans during drought. |
| Fayetteville | No | 25 ft | Fire pits allowed in residential areas. Must be attended at all times. Check city website for current burn ban status. |
| Fort Smith | No | 25 ft | Recreational fires allowed with standard 25-foot setback. No open burning of trash or debris. |
How Arkansas Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Arkansas with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where Arkansas stands nationally.
| State | Strictness | Permit | Setback | Burn Bans | Open Burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas (AR) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Alabama (AL) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Delaware (DE) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Georgia (GA) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Idaho (ID) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Kansas (KS) | Lenient | No | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in Arkansas
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Arkansas?
No, Arkansas does not require a state-level permit for residential fire pits. However, your city or county may have its own permit requirements, especially for permanent, built-in fire pits. Always check with your local fire department.
How far does a fire pit need to be from my house in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure, including your house, garage, shed, fence, and overhanging trees. This setback also typically applies to property lines. Some local jurisdictions may require greater distances. Always measure from the nearest edge of the fire pit to the nearest point of the structure.
How big can a fire pit be in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the maximum fire pit diameter is 48 inches. This applies to the interior burning area. Fire pits larger than this may require a special permit or variance from your local jurisdiction. The fire should generally not exceed 3 feet in height.
Are there burn bans in Arkansas?
Burn bans in Arkansas are seasonal, typically enacted during dry months when wildfire risk is elevated. Check your county's burn ban status before using a fire pit. During an active burn ban, all outdoor fires -- including fire pits -- are typically prohibited.
Can I burn wood in a fire pit in Arkansas?
Yes, wood-burning fire pits are generally allowed in Arkansas, subject to setback requirements, burn ban status, and local regulations. Use only clean, dry, untreated firewood. Never burn trash, painted wood, treated lumber, or yard waste in a fire pit. A spark screen is recommended.
What are the penalties for violating fire pit regulations in Arkansas?
Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in Arkansas vary by jurisdiction but can include fines ranging from $100 to $10,000 or more. If a fire pit causes property damage or a wildfire, the responsible party may be held liable for all suppression costs and damages. In severe cases, criminal charges including arson or reckless endangerment may apply. Always follow all fire pit regulations and check burn ban status before lighting any outdoor fire.
Check Fire Pit Rules for Your City
Use our fire pit regulations lookup tool to find the specific rules for your city in Arkansas, or browse all 50 states to compare fire pit regulations across the country. Remember that local rules may be more specific than state-level regulations. Always check with your local fire department before installing or using a fire pit.