Fire Pit Regulations in Florida (FL)
Florida is rated Strict for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 68/100. A permit is generally required for residential fire pits in Florida. 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 frequent.
Full Fire Pit Regulations Summary for Florida
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Setback Distance | 25 feet |
| Maximum Diameter | 48 inches |
| Burn Ban Frequency | Frequent |
| Open Burning Allowed | Yes |
| Strictness Rating | Strict (68/100) |
| Effective Date | 2025-01-01 |
Detailed Regulations
Florida requires an authorization from the Florida Forest Service for open burning. Recreational fire pits are allowed with restrictions. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from structures and attended at all times. The Florida Forest Service may issue county-level burn bans during dry conditions, which are common in spring. Wood-burning fire pits must have a spark screen. Air curtain incinerators have separate rules. Many counties and cities have additional local regulations.
Fire Pit Regulations by City in Florida
Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. While Florida generally requires a permit, city-level rules may have additional requirements. Below are fire pit details for 4 cities in Florida.
| City | Permit | Setback | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami | Yes | 25 ft | Permit required for fire pits. Open burning restricted in urban areas. 25-foot setback from structures. Gas fire pits preferred in dense neighborhoods. |
| Orlando | Yes | 25 ft | Fire pits require permit from Orange County Fire Rescue. 25-foot setback. Burn bans common during spring dry season. |
| Tampa | Yes | 25 ft | Permit required. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from structures. Hillsborough County enforces seasonal burn bans. |
| Jacksonville | Yes | 25 ft | Authorization required from Florida Forest Service. 25-foot setback. Frequent burn bans during dry seasons. |
How Florida Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Florida with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where Florida stands nationally.
| State | Strictness | Permit | Setback | Burn Bans | Open Burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida (FL) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Frequent | Yes |
| Wisconsin (WI) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| New York (NY) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Oregon (OR) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Washington (WA) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Connecticut (CT) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | No |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in Florida
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Florida?
Yes, Florida 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 Florida?
In Florida, 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 Florida?
In Florida, 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 Florida?
Burn bans are frequent in Florida 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 Florida?
Yes, wood-burning fire pits are generally allowed in Florida, 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 Florida?
Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in Florida 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 Florida, 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.