Recreational Fire Guidelines
It is the time of year again where we begin to spend our time outside for recreation. Along with this, many of us have backyard fire pits and enjoy an occasional campfire. While burning a campfire there are several things we must keep in mind to ensure fire safety and the consideration of our neighbors. The Minnesota Uniform Fire Code and Minnesota State Statutes regulate the use of recreational fires to assure this. The following is the guidelines that need to be followed when burning a recreational fire.

Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material and all combustibles such as leaves need to be cleared away from the area before starting a fire. No burning is allowed on streets, sidewalks, or other public right of ways. Fire pits should also be constructed of non-combustible material. A non-combustible fire ring or pit that is at least 8 inches deep is required for a recreational fire.

A recreational fire can only be three feet in diameter and flames may reach no more than three feet high.

Some sort of fire extinguishing method needs to be present during the time of the fire. A garden hose is a great option, or buckets filled with water. Even a fire extinguisher is OK.

Somebody must be in attendance of the fire at all times until the fire is completely extinguished. It is against the law to leave a fire unattended!

Materials you may burn are twigs, branches, fire wood, untreated scrap lumber, or charcoal. You CANNOT burn treated lumber, yard waste, leaves, brush, debris, or refuse material.

No burning will be allowed during burning bans issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or the Sartell Fire Department.

Please keep in mind these guidelines this summer while enjoying a campfire. The police and fire departments can require a fire to be extinguished if these guidelines are not met.