Backyard Campfire Tips

Although "recreational fires" are allowed in our backyards - the backyard campfire - there are still restrictions on those fires because any fire is dangerous...

1. Maximum fuel area of the fire is 3 feet across and 2 feet high.
2. No burning of rubbish, paper products or construction material is allowed! Burning trash in your yard is NOT allowed.
3. Fires not contained in an approved burning appliance must be at least 25 feet from a building or combustible material.
4. Fires contained in an approved burning appliance must be no closer than 15 feet from a building or combustible material.
5. Any conditions that could cause a fire to spread to within 25 feet of a building must be eliminated prior to starting the fire.
6. You must have the means to put out the fire at hand - buckets and shovels, garden hoses, or a minimum 4-A fire extinguisher.
7. Fires must be constantly attended by someone who knows how to use the equipment to put it out.
8. Fires must not be started if the wind is blowing 10mph or more.
9. The Fire Department can order the fire to be put out if they think it is hazardous or produces obnoxious smoke or odors.

If you are a neighbor who is concerned about someone else's backyard fire, call 911 and the department will come out without siren and lights to investigate and extinguish the fire if necessary.

For questions, call 651.266.8989.

Submitted by the St. Paul Fire Marshal