MEDIA CONTACT ONLY: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The popularity of fire pits and chimneas have created a need to update the Prince George’s County laws concerning the safe use of these
devices. Prince George's County Fire Safety Law (Subtitle 11)
– Section 11-268 “Open, Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces”
has been updated and is in effect.
IN GENERAL WITH ALL
RECREATIONAL FIRES
Recreational fires must be attended at all times by a person
18 years of age or older who is in direct view of the fire until it is
completely extinguished. No fire should
be left to smolder.
A water hose, fire extinguisher or other means to extinguish
the fire must be available.
Only dry natural wood (firewood) can be burned in a
recreational fire. No yard waste materials.
Recreational fire will be prohibited during drought
conditions, strong winds, or air pollution events (Code Red or Code Orange).
Thick smoke and visible smoke that steadily crosses property
lines are prohibited.
FIXED or PORTABLE
FIRE PITS, FIREPLACES and CHIMNEA’S
Fires in these devices must be 30 feet away from any road,
sidewalk or public way.
Fires must be 30 feet from any structure.
Fires are not allowed on any balcony or deck.
PROPANE and
NATURAL GAS FUELED FIRE PITS
Fixed or portable fireplaces or pits fueled by natural gas
or propane are permitted at single-family dwellings and townhomes when used according to manufactures guidelines.
Any such device used on a deck must be at least 10 feet from the house
and the combustion area cannot make contact with combustible decking.
These laws are designed to keep you safe. If found guilty of violating Section 11-268 the maximum
penalty is up to $1,000 and/or 6 months in jail.
For additional information on the regulation of open burning and recreational fires, please
contact the Prince George’s County Office of the Fire Marshal at 301-583-1830.
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