Fire Pit Regulations in Colorado (CO)
Colorado is rated Strict for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 85/100. A permit is generally required for residential fire pits in Colorado. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from any structure. The maximum fire pit diameter is 36 inches. Open burning is prohibited. Burn bans are frequent.
Full Fire Pit Regulations Summary for Colorado
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Setback Distance | 15 feet |
| Maximum Diameter | 36 inches |
| Burn Ban Frequency | Frequent |
| Open Burning Allowed | No |
| Strictness Rating | Strict (85/100) |
| Effective Date | 2025-01-01 |
Detailed Regulations
Colorado enforces strict fire regulations, particularly in mountain communities and the wildland-urban interface. Open burning is prohibited in many counties. Fire pits must be contained, no more than 36 inches in diameter, and at least 15 feet from structures. Fire restrictions are commonly enacted during summer and fall. The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control coordinates with county sheriffs on burn bans. Many mountain towns have year-round fire pit restrictions.
Fire Pit Regulations by City in Colorado
Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. While Colorado generally requires a permit, city-level rules may have additional requirements. Below are fire pit details for 4 cities in Colorado.
| City | Permit | Setback | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | Yes | 15 ft | Portable fire pits allowed with conditions. Must be 15 feet from structures. No open burning. Gas fire pits preferred. Wood-burning fire pits must have spark screen. |
| Colorado Springs | Yes | 15 ft | Fire pit regulations strictly enforced due to wildfire history. Permit required. 15-foot setback. Fire restrictions common May-October. |
| Boulder | Yes | 15 ft | Very strict fire regulations. Fire pits require permit. Open fires may be completely banned during Stage I/II fire restrictions. |
| Fort Collins | Yes | 15 ft | Fire pits must be 15 feet from structures. Permit required for permanent installations. Seasonal fire restrictions apply. |
How Colorado Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Colorado with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where Colorado stands nationally.
| State | Strictness | Permit | Setback | Burn Bans | Open Burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado (CO) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Frequent | No |
| California (CA) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Frequent | No |
| Massachusetts (MA) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | No |
| New Jersey (NJ) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Rhode Island (RI) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Hawaii (HI) | Strict | Yes | 20 ft | Frequent | No |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in Colorado
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado generally requires a permit for residential fire pits. Contact your local fire department or building department for the specific permit process and fees. Some jurisdictions may exempt small, portable fire pits.
How far does a fire pit need to be from my house in Colorado?
In Colorado, fire pits must be at least 15 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 Colorado?
In Colorado, the maximum fire pit diameter is 36 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 Colorado?
Burn bans are frequent in Colorado due to elevated wildfire or fire risk. Multiple burn bans may be enacted throughout the year during dry, hot, or windy conditions. Always check current burn ban status before using any fire pit. Gas fire pits may be exempt from some burn bans.
Can I burn wood in a fire pit in Colorado?
Colorado prohibits open burning, which may restrict wood-burning fire pits. Gas fire pits (propane or natural gas) are generally a better option and face fewer restrictions. Some jurisdictions may allow contained wood-burning fire pits with proper permits and containment, but gas fire pits are strongly preferred and may be the only option during burn bans.
What are the penalties for violating fire pit regulations in Colorado?
Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in Colorado 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 Colorado, 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.