Recreational Fire Safety

Recreational Fires

Defined in the Fire Code as "An outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish where the fuel being burned is contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill, or barbeque pit and has a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height for pleasure with open ait between the bottom of device and ground surface for religious ceremonies, cooking, warmth or similar purpose."

Open Burning

Defined in the Fire Code as "The burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. Open burning does not include road flares, smudge pots, and similar devices associated with safety or occupational uses typically considered open flames or recreational fires." 

For the purpose of the above definitions, open burning is not allowed within the City of Bondurant city limits without obtaining a permit. Contact the Fire Department for assistance in determining the types of permits needed and procedures for obtaining such permits. 

Recreational Fire Guidelines

• The fire must be at least 25 feet from structures and other combustible materials. 
• The fuel area may not exceed 3 feet in diameter, may not exceed 2 feet in height and must have open-air space between the bottom of the device and the ground surface.
• Only solid fuels are allowed (no rubbish).
• Dry grass, leaves, and other combustibles must be cleared for a minimum of 10 feet around the fire area.
• Any condition which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure must be eliminated.
• The fire must be constantly attended to by a competent adult. 
• A portable fire extinguisher or alternative means of extinguishing such as a garden hose must be in place for immediate use. 
• Fires emitting smoke determined to be harmful to surrounding property owners, or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make sure fires hazardous, will be immediately extinguished. 

Portable Outdoor Fireplaces Guidelines

• Must be at least 15 feet from structures and other combustible materials. 
• Only solid fuels are allowed (no rubbish).
• It may be an open design or equipped with a small hearth opening and a short chimney or chimney opening in the top.
• Must be used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
• Must be constantly attended by a competent adult. 
• A portable fire extinguisher or alternative means of extinguishing such as a garden hose must be in place for immediate use. 
• Fires emitting smoke determined to be harmful to surrounding property owners, or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make sure fires hazardous, will be immediately extinguished. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can pre-treated wood be burned? No. You should never burn pressure-treated wood. This is because the preservative used during the pressure treatment poses a great danger to living organisms. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers pressure-treated lumber as hazardous waste. 
• Can tree limbs, leaves, etc., be burned? These materials burn relatively quickly and retain very little heat when extinguished, making them safe to burn. Burning processed materials like pallets, building lumber, or cardboard is not allowed. However, if a fire emits smoke, it may be determined to be harmful to surrounding property owners and will be immediately extinguished. 

Additional information and further explanation may be obtained by contacting Bondurant Emergency Services at 515-630-3934.