Fire Pit Regulations in Oregon (OR)
Oregon is rated Strict for fire pit regulations with a strictness score of 75/100. A permit is generally required for residential fire pits in Oregon. 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 seasonal.
Full Fire Pit Regulations Summary for Oregon
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Setback Distance | 15 feet |
| Maximum Diameter | 36 inches |
| Burn Ban Frequency | Seasonal |
| Open Burning Allowed | No |
| Strictness Rating | Strict (75/100) |
| Effective Date | 2025-01-01 |
Detailed Regulations
Oregon has strict fire regulations, especially in the wildland-urban interface. The Oregon Department of Forestry manages fire season restrictions. Open burning is generally prohibited in many areas. Recreational fire pits are allowed with restrictions: must be contained, 15 feet from structures, and may require a permit depending on the jurisdiction. Fire season typically runs June through October, during which additional restrictions apply. DEQ regulates air quality and may impose no-burn days.
Fire Pit Regulations by City in Oregon
Fire pit rules can vary by city even within the same state. While Oregon generally requires a permit, city-level rules may have additional requirements. Below are fire pit details for 4 cities in Oregon.
| City | Permit | Setback | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | Yes | 15 ft | Recreational fire pits allowed with permit. 15-foot setback from structures. No open burning. DEQ no-burn days may restrict wood-burning fire pits. |
| Eugene | Yes | 15 ft | Permit required. Fire pits must be 15 feet from structures. Lane Regional Air Protection Agency may impose burn bans. |
| Bend | Yes | 15 ft | Very strict. Fire season restrictions frequently ban all outdoor fires. Permit required. 15-foot setback. |
| Salem | Yes | 15 ft | Recreational fires allowed with permit. 15-foot setback. Seasonal fire restrictions apply. |
How Oregon Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Oregon with five states that have similar fire pit regulation strictness. This comparison helps illustrate where Oregon stands nationally.
| State | Strictness | Permit | Setback | Burn Bans | Open Burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon (OR) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| New York (NY) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Washington (WA) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Connecticut (CT) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Seasonal | No |
| Florida (FL) | Strict | Yes | 25 ft | Frequent | Yes |
| California (CA) | Strict | Yes | 15 ft | Frequent | No |
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits in Oregon
Do I need a permit for a fire pit in Oregon?
Yes, Oregon 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 Oregon?
In Oregon, 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 Oregon?
In Oregon, 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 Oregon?
Burn bans in Oregon 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 Oregon?
Oregon 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 Oregon?
Penalties for violating fire pit regulations or burn bans in Oregon 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 Oregon, 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.