Fire Pit Regulations in Missouri (MO)

Missouri is rated Moderate for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 45/100. No state-level permit is required for residential fire pits in Missouri. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure. The maximum fire pit diameter is 36 inches. Open burning is allowed with restrictions. Burn bans are seasonal.

Permit Required No No state permit needed
Setback Distance 25 feet From structures
Max Diameter 36 inches State maximum
Burn Ban Frequency Seasonal Check current status
Open Burning Allowed With restrictions
Strictness Score 45/100 Moderate

Full Fire Pit Regulations Summary for Missouri

Permit Required No
Setback Distance 25 feet
Maximum Diameter 36 inches
Burn Ban Frequency Seasonal
Open Burning Allowed Yes
Strictness Rating Moderate (45/100)
Gas Fire Pits Exempt from Burn Bans Yes -- gas fire pits typically exempt
Typical Fine Range $100-$500 and/or up to 90 days (St. Louis City Ord. 70932); county burn-ban violations up to a class A misdemeanor (RSMo 49.266); state air-rule civil penalty up to $10,000 per day (RSMo 643.151)
Regulatory Authority Missouri DNR Air Pollution Control Program (10 CSR 10-6.045) for what may be burned; city and fire protection district fire codes for fire pits; county commissions with the State Fire Marshal for burn bans (RSMo 49.266)
Effective Date 2026-10-20

Detailed Regulations

Missouri has no state permit and no state fire-pit rule. The Department of Natural Resources' open burning rule (10 CSR 10-6.045) applies statewide but only lists materials that may never be burned (tires, asphalt roofing, carpet, used oil, asbestos, construction debris and trade waste other than untreated wood, household waste from 5+ unit properties or from someone else's property, durable goods); DNR states it does not issue open burning permits, and its fact sheet PUB2047 allows recreational, ceremonial and cooking fires fueled with untreated wood. Size, distance, attendance and permit rules come from the fire code each city or fire protection district adopts under RSMo 67.280 - typically the International Fire Code: recreational fire no larger than 3 x 2 ft, 25 ft from structures and combustibles, 15 ft for a portable outdoor fireplace or chiminea, constantly attended with an extinguisher or hose at hand. St. Louis City's own ordinance uses 30 x 18 inches and 12 ft. Yard waste burning is legal under state law on the generating property but is banned by most cities. Burn bans are local: cities and fire protection districts may ban burning by ordinance at any time, and county commissions may issue a countywide ban (RSMo 49.266) only after the State Fire Marshal finds one appropriate and the U.S. Drought Monitor rates the county in severe or worse drought; violations can be a class A misdemeanor.

Check current burn ban status: Missouri DNR Air Pollution Control Program (10 CSR 10-6.045) for what may be burned; city and fire protection district fire codes for fire pits; county commissions with the State Fire Marshal for burn bans (RSMo 49.266) - Official burn ban information

Fire Pit Regulations by City in Missouri

Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. Even though Missouri does not require a state-level permit, some cities may have their own permit requirements. Below are fire pit details for 5 cities in Missouri.

City Permit Setback Details
Kansas City No 25 ft 2018 International Fire Code with city amendments. Recreational fire (3 x 2 ft max) at least 25 ft from structures and combustibles; portable outdoor fireplaces 15 ft, with an exception for structures of 4 or fewer dwelling units (follow the manufacturer's clearance). Constant attendance with a 4-A extinguisher, hose, sand or water barrel. Burning rubbish, trash or yard waste is prohibited; bonfires need a permit issued to the landowner. Recreational and barbecue fires are also subject to city code sections 26-307 and 26-308.
St. Louis No 12 ft Ordinance 70932 as amended by 71260 (2021): recreational fire fuel area no more than 30 in. diameter x 18 in. high, at least 12 ft from any structure including a fence or deck; clean wood only (no leaves, grass, paper, treated wood, building materials, logs over 4 in.); attended by someone 16+, out within 4 hours and never after 11 p.m., extinguishing means within 15 ft; no fires when wind exceeds 15 mph. Fine $100-$500 and/or up to 90 days. No permit.
Springfield No 25 ft Open burning in city limits requires a permit, but a recreational fire 3 ft diameter x 2 ft high or smaller is exempt: dry seasoned firewood only, contained, 25 ft from structures and anything combustible, means to extinguish at hand, no fire when winds are 15 mph or greater, out within 4 hours and by midnight. Bonfires (max 5 x 5 x 5 ft, 50 ft setback, 4 hours) need a Community Risk Reduction permit issued to the landowner. Grass, leaves and yard waste cannot be burned.
Columbia No 25 ft 2018 IFC. No permit for a recreational fire (3 x 2 ft max); anything larger is a bonfire and needs a permit. 25 ft from structures for a small fire, 15 ft for an approved container such as a chiminea, 50 ft for other open burning. Wood logs and sticks only; no grass, leaves or trash. Constantly attended with extinguisher, sand or hose. No burning when winds exceed 10 mph or humidity is below 30%. Fire Department 573-874-7391.
Lee's Summit No 15 ft Open burning is prohibited by ordinance. A portable outdoor fireplace (chiminea or fire pit with spark arrestor) needs no permit: manufacturer's instructions, 15 ft from structures and combustibles (IFC 307.4.3), seasoned firewood only, constantly attended, 4-A extinguisher or hose ready. An open recreational fire or campfire (3 x 2 ft max, 25 ft) requires a permit for each fire, the first after a Fire Prevention site visit (816-969-1300). Trash, lumber and yard waste are prohibited.

Missouri Has No State Fire-Pit Rule, Only a List of What You Can't Burn

Missouri regulates outdoor fire from two directions, and neither one tells a homeowner how big a fire pit can be or how far from the house it must sit. The air-quality layer is the Department of Natural Resources' open burning rule, 10 CSR 10-6.045, which "applies to all open burning throughout the state of Missouri." It defines open burning as burning "without passing through a chimney or stack," then does one job: it names the materials that "must not be disposed of by open burning." The fire-safety layer is local. Under RSMo 67.280 counties, municipalities and fire protection districts adopt "fire prevention" codes by reference, so the numbers that govern your backyard come from whichever International Fire Code edition your city or district has adopted.

  • No state permit exists. DNR's open burning page says it outright: "The Missouri Department of Natural Resources does not issue permits for open burning." It tells residents to "contact the city or county of jurisdiction for any local restrictions" before burning anything.
  • Recreational and cooking fires are allowed statewide. DNR's fact sheet PUB2047 (May 2020) lists campfires and other fires for recreation, ceremonies or noncommercial outdoor cooking as allowed, with fuel limited to "vegetative woody materials or untreated wood products." The rule defines untreated wood as wood "not chemically preserved, painted, stained, or composited," and excludes plywood, particleboard and chipboard.
  • The never-burn list. Section (3)(A) of the rule prohibits open burning of petroleum-based materials "including but not limited to, tires, asphalt roofing material, carpet, and used oils"; asbestos-containing materials; trade waste and construction or demolition waste other than untreated wood; salvage-operation waste; household waste from properties with five or more units; household waste "originated from another's property"; and durable goods. Any burning that "causes or constitutes a public health hazard" is also barred, with the hazard call made by the local fire, police or health department.
  • Yard waste is legal under state law but discouraged. PUB2047 allows vegetative waste that originates and is burned on the same premises, and household refuse from homes of four or fewer units burned on the generator's own property, while stating that the department "strongly discourages open burning of any material prior to investigating alternatives." Most cities ban it anyway (see below).
  • The old metro rules are gone. Kansas City's 10 CSR 10-2.100 and St. Louis's 10 CSR 10-5.070 open burning restrictions were both rescinded January 30, 2008, the day the statewide rule took effect. Metro-specific limits now come from city ordinances and county health departments, not DNR. PUB2047 lists the Kansas City Health Department Air Quality Program (816-513-6314), St. Louis County (314-615-8924), the St. Louis City Division of Air Pollution Control (314-613-7300) and Springfield Environmental Services (417-864-2031) as the local contacts.
  • Penalty for breaking the air rule: RSMo 643.151 lets the Air Conservation Commission seek a civil penalty "not to exceed ten thousand dollars for each violation per day."

Burn Bans: Counties Need the Fire Marshal, Cities and Districts Don't

Missouri has no statewide burn-ban mechanism and no Governor's switch; bans are enacted jurisdiction by jurisdiction. The Division of Fire Safety's County Burn Bans page explains that "a county, municipality or tax supported fire protection district may, within its jurisdictional boundaries, enact an ordinance to issue a burn ban at any time." Counties have an extra hurdle. Under RSMo 49.266(3) (current version effective August 28, 2025) a county commission may issue a ban only "upon a determination by the state fire marshal that a burn ban order is appropriate," based on an actual or impending natural disaster that jeopardizes public safety and the U.S. Drought Monitor having "designated the county as an area of severe, extreme, or exceptional drought."

  • Penalty: a county burn-ban violation may be punished as "up to a class A misdemeanor." The statute exempts state fire-management agencies and agricultural burning done with best management practices, and a ban cannot stop fireworks sales, though it may prohibit igniting missiles and skyrockets.
  • Who else can ban: the Fire Fighters Association of Missouri's guidance from the Division of Fire Safety notes that fire protection districts act under RSMo 321.220(12), cities under their charters and chapters 71 to 100, while volunteer fire associations "have no statutory authority to issue ordinances or orders" and must work through the county commission.
  • Where to check: the Division's Natural Cover Fire Risk page links a running spreadsheet of county bans (most recently dated September 16, 2026), the U.S. Drought Monitor for Missouri, and National Weather Service fire-weather alerts. Counties confirm bans by emailing firesafe@dfs.dps.mo.gov.
  • MDC's standing advice: the Department of Conservation's wildfire prevention page says "the main cause of wildfire in Missouri is improper burning of debris, such as trash and brush piles," and tells you to "Ask your local fire department if there is a burn ban in place." A February 2024 release adds Red Flag Warnings to that check and warns never to use gasoline or kerosene to start a fire. Both repeat the liability rule: "a person who starts a fire for any reason is responsible for any damage it may cause."

The Local Numbers: 25 Feet Open, 15 Feet in a Container, 12 in St. Louis

Because the state sets no distance, size or attendance rule, every real number comes from a city or district fire code. Four of the five cities below adopted the International Fire Code, so their rules track its Section 307: a recreational fire is a fuel area no more than 3 feet across and 2 feet high, kept 25 feet from structures and combustibles; a portable outdoor fireplace (chiminea or manufactured pit) is used per the manufacturer's instructions and kept 15 feet away; every fire is constantly attended with an extinguisher, hose, sand or water at hand.

  • Kansas City enforces the 2018 IFC with city amendments. Section 307.4.2: recreational fires "shall not be conducted within 25 feet" of a structure or combustible material. Section 307.4.3 puts portable fireplaces at 15 feet but exempts "Structures containing 4 or less dwelling units," so at a single-family home the manufacturer's clearance governs. Section 307.5 requires constant attendance and a 4-A extinguisher "or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose." The city's own Section 307.6 prohibits burning rubbish, trash or yard waste, and routes recreational and barbecue fires to city code sections 26-307 and 26-308. Bonfires need a permit issued to the landowner, and the chief can order any fire out that is "offensive or objectionable due to smoke or odor."
  • St. Louis City wrote its own rule rather than adopting the IFC definition. Ordinance 70932 (2019) defines a recreational fire as one with "a total fuel area no more than thirty (30) inches in diameter and eighteen (18) inches in height," burning nothing but clean wood: no refuse, leaves, grass, treated wood, building materials, paper, or "logs larger than four (4) inches diameter." It must be attended by someone "at least sixteen years of age," put out within four hours and "in no case" later than 11:00 p.m., with a hose, extinguisher or bucket no more than 15 feet from the fuel, and is prohibited when winds exceed 15 mph. Violations carry a fine of $100 to $500, up to 90 days in jail, or both. Ordinance 71260 (effective January 18, 2021) cut the setback from 25 feet to 12 feet "of any structure, including a fence or deck." No permit is involved. Note the definition covers fires whose fuel is not in a portable outdoor fireplace or grill, so a manufactured pit is outside the ordinance's definition; the city's health and safety authorities may still "prohibit, suspend or further restrict" recreational fires when conditions warrant.
  • Springfield starts from a ban: the fire department's permit page says that within city limits "no person may cause or allow open burning without a permit" under IFC Section 307 as adopted, and that "a permit is required for a recreational fire with a fire greater than 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height." Below that size the city's written guidance, as relayed to KY3 in 2025 and 2021, allows a contained fire-pit fire of "dry, seasoned firewood ONLY," 25 feet from "any structures or anything combustible," with a means to put it out at hand, no fire when winds are 15 mph or greater, out within four hours and by midnight. Bonfires need a permit issued to the landowner: 5 by 5 by 5 feet, 50 feet from structures, four hours. "Grass, leaves or any other type of yard waste cannot be burned" in the city.
  • Columbia adopted the 2018 IFC. Its open burning page states that "a permit for open burning is not required for a recreational fire" meeting the code definition; anything larger is a bonfire and needs a permit. The fire department's recreational fire tips give the distances: 50 feet from any structure for open burning, 25 feet for a small fire no larger than 3 by 2 feet, and 15 feet for an approved container such as a chiminea. "Only wood logs and sticks are allowed," fires "must be constantly attended until fully extinguished," and burning is prohibited when winds exceed 10 mph or relative humidity is below 30 percent. Questions: 573-874-7391.
  • Lee's Summit says "Open burning is prohibited in the City of Lee's Summit by ordinance," but its fire department page carves out the two things a homeowner wants. A chiminea or fire pit with a spark arrestor needs no permit: use it "in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions," 15 feet from structures and combustibles (IFC 307.4.3), "only seasoned firewood," constantly attended, with a 4-A extinguisher or hose ready. An open recreational fire or campfire is different: a permit is required for each fire (the first after a Fire Prevention site visit), 25 feet from structures, no larger than 3 feet by 2 feet. "Trash, lumber or yard waste is prohibited" in either case. Permits: 816-969-1300.

If your town isn't listed, assume the IFC defaults (3 x 2 feet, 25 feet open, 15 feet in a container, constant attendance) and call the fire department or fire protection district. The state rule gives you no numbers to fall back on, and outside city limits the fire protection district, not the county, is usually the code authority.

Sources

Rules, statutes and city guidance last reviewed October 2026.

How Missouri Compares to Other States

Below is a comparison of Missouri with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where Missouri stands nationally.

State Strictness Permit Setback Burn Bans Open Burn
Missouri (MO) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes
Connecticut (CT) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes
Maine (ME) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes
Massachusetts (MA) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes
Minnesota (MN) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes
North Carolina (NC) Moderate No 25 ft Seasonal Yes

How to Stay Compliant with Fire Pit Rules in Missouri

Following Missouri's fire pit regulations protects you from fines, liability, and potential criminal charges. Here is a step-by-step compliance checklist specific to Missouri:

  1. Verify no local permit is needed: While Missouri does not require a state-level permit, check with your city or county -- cities like Kansas City may have local requirements.
  2. Measure your setback distance: Your fire pit must be at least 25 feet from any structure, fence, property line, or overhanging branches. Measure from the nearest edge of the fire pit to the nearest point of the structure. Consider adding 5 extra feet as a safety buffer.
  3. Choose the right size: Missouri limits fire pits to 36 inches in diameter. Measure the interior burning area, not the outer rim.
  4. Check burn ban status before every use: Missouri has seasonal burn bans. Check your county or state forestry website before using your fire pit, especially during dry months.
  5. Select appropriate fuel: Wood-burning fire pits are allowed in Missouri (when burn bans are not active). Use only clean, dry, untreated firewood. Never burn trash, painted wood, or treated lumber.
  6. Prepare safety equipment: Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water within 10 feet of the fire pit at all times. A spark screen is recommended for wood-burning fire pits.

Gas vs. Wood-Burning Fire Pits in Missouri

Your choice between a gas and wood-burning fire pit has significant regulatory implications in Missouri. Here is how the two types compare under Missouri's current rules:

Feature Gas Fire Pit Wood-Burning Fire Pit
Permit Required Usually no Usually no (permanent installations may)
Allowed During Burn Bans Usually yes (no sparks or embers) No -- prohibited during all burn bans
Air Quality Restrictions Exempt from no-burn days Prohibited on no-burn days
Setback Distance 25 ft (same as wood) 25 ft
Smoke & Neighbor Impact No smoke, no embers, minimal odor Smoke, sparks, and ash (neighbor complaints common)
Best For Missouri Good option for hassle-free use Allowed with proper compliance

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in Missouri

Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Missouri?

No, Missouri 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 Missouri?

In Missouri, 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 Missouri?

In Missouri, 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 Missouri?

Burn bans in Missouri 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 Missouri?

Yes, wood-burning fire pits are generally allowed in Missouri, 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 Missouri?

Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in Missouri 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.

Related Resources for Missouri Homeowners

Check Fire Pit Rules for Your City

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