Fire Pit Regulations in New Hampshire (NH)
New Hampshire is rated Moderate for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 58/100. A permit is generally required for residential fire pits in New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Setback Distance | 25 feet |
| Maximum Diameter | 48 inches |
| Burn Ban Frequency | Seasonal |
| Open Burning Allowed | Yes |
| Strictness Rating | Moderate (58/100) |
| Gas Fire Pits Exempt from Burn Bans | Yes -- gas fire pits typically exempt |
| Typical Fine Range | $200-$2,000 |
| Regulatory Authority | NH Division of Forests and Lands |
| Effective Date | 2025-01-01 |
Detailed Regulations
New Hampshire requires a fire permit for most outdoor burning. The NH Division of Forests and Lands manages burn permits through local forest fire wardens. Recreational campfires and fire pits require a seasonal campfire permit, which is free from the local fire warden. Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from structures. The state may issue burn bans during dry conditions, especially in spring when ground is dry but vegetation has not yet greened up.
Fire Pit Regulations by City in New Hampshire
Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. While New Hampshire generally requires a permit, city-level rules may have additional requirements. Below are fire pit details for 3 cities in New Hampshire.
| City | Permit | Setback | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal campfire permit required from local fire warden. Fire pits must be 25 feet from structures. Check fire danger level before burning. |
| Nashua | Yes | 25 ft | Permit required. 25-foot setback from structures. Fire pits must be attended at all times. |
| Concord | Yes | 25 ft | Campfire permit required. Standard 25-foot setback. Burning prohibited during high fire danger days. |
How New Hampshire Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of New Hampshire with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where New Hampshire stands nationally.
| State | Strictness | Permit | Setback | Burn Bans | Open Burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire (NH) | Moderate | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Maine (ME) | Moderate | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Vermont (VT) | Moderate | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Wisconsin (WI) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | Yes |
| Florida (FL) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Frequent | Yes |
| Oklahoma (OK) | Moderate | No | 25 ft | Frequent | Yes |
How to Stay Compliant with Fire Pit Rules in New Hampshire
Following New Hampshire's fire pit regulations protects you from fines, liability, and potential criminal charges. Here is a step-by-step compliance checklist specific to New Hampshire:
- Apply for your fire pit permit: New Hampshire requires a permit for residential fire pits. Contact your local fire department or building department to apply. Fees typically range from $25 to $200.
- 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.
- Choose the right size: New Hampshire limits fire pits to 48 inches in diameter. Measure the interior burning area, not the outer rim.
- Check burn ban status before every use: New Hampshire has seasonal burn bans. Check your county or state forestry website before using your fire pit, especially during dry months.
- Select appropriate fuel: Wood-burning fire pits are allowed in New Hampshire (when burn bans are not active). Use only clean, dry, untreated firewood. Never burn trash, painted wood, or treated lumber.
- 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 New Hampshire
Your choice between a gas and wood-burning fire pit has significant regulatory implications in New Hampshire. Here is how the two types compare under New Hampshire's current rules:
| Feature | Gas Fire Pit | Wood-Burning Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes (natural gas line may need plumbing permit) | Yes |
| 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 New Hampshire | Good option for hassle-free use | Allowed with proper compliance |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in New Hampshire
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in New Hampshire?
Yes, New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire?
Burn bans in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
Yes, wood-burning fire pits are generally allowed in New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire?
Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire, 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.