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OFM Pub Ed – Recreational Outdoor Burning and Cooking Fire Regulations

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RECREATIONAL OUTDOOR BURNING AND COOKING FIRE REGULATIONS

Renton Regional Fire authority receives calls each year regarding recreational fires. Recreational fires are allowed in the city of Renton ensuring that fire safety requirements are met, and that air quality and fire safety conditions allow outdoor burning.

Definitions

Recreational fires are defined as cooking fires and charcoal barbecues, campfires and bonfires in designated areas or on private property for cooking, pleasure or ceremonial purposes. Fires lit in chimineas, fire pits, fire bowls and similar free- standing devices (except burn barrels which are illegal) fall under this definition. They are allowed in both urban and unincorporated areas.

Air Quality Regulations

When air quality conditions are poor, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency may enact a ban on both indoor and outdoor burning. To determine if an air quality burn ban is in effect, call 1.800.595.4341 or visit their web site: www.pscleanair.org

Fire Safety Burn Ban

When a red flag warning is in effect, or when weather conditions make burning unsafe, a ban on outdoor burning may go into effect. To determine if a burn ban is in effect, visit www.rentonrfa.org.

Recreational Fires

Recreational fires are permitted provided the following listed requirements are met:

  • The fire is not more than 3′ in diameter and 2′ in height.
  • The fire is separated by 25′ from any combustible structures, including decks or fences.
  • Trash, yard waste, rubbish or paper products are not being burned.
  • Fire extinguishing equipment is readily available for use. This should include a shovel, two buckets of water, a charged garden hose or fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating.
  • The fire is continually attended by an adult until it is completely extinguished.
  • The fire is not being conducted on public property where fires are prohibited, such as in a park or on school grounds. Fires in parks are only allowed where specifically authorized, and where appropriate burning receptacles are provided.

Prohibited Materials

The following materials may not be burned in any outdoor fire: garbage, dead animals, asphalt, petroleum products, paints, rubber products, plastics, paper (other than what is necessary to start a fire), cardboard, treated wood, construction/ demolition debris, metal, or any substance (other than charcoal or wood that has not been treated, painted or stained) that normally releases toxic emissions, dense smoke, or obnoxious odors when burned.

Use of Portable Outdoor Fireplaces

Portable outdoor fireplaces are devices which are held off the ground by legs or other supporting structures, are intended to contain a fire, prevent burning material from leaving the container, and prevent the spread of embers or sparks.

Use of portable outdoor fireplaces are allowed providing the following conditions are met:

  • The fireplace is not placed on a combustible deck or balcony and is not located within 15’ of a structure or combustible material or vegetation.
  • No burn ban is in effect.
  • Trash, yard waste, rubbish or paper products are not being burned.
  • Fire extinguishing equipment is readily available for use. This should include a shovel, two buckets of water, a charged garden hose or fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating.

Complaints and Hazardous Fires

If the fire department determines that your fire constitutes a hazard, the fire department will have you extinguish your fire. Complaints regarding smoke or other air quality concern should be directed to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency at pscleanair.gov/262/File-a-Complaint or (800) 552-3565.