Firepit Restrictions in Green Bay, WI

Enjoying a crackling fire pit in your backyard on a cool Wisconsin evening is a great way to relax and spend time with loved ones. However, before you light the match, it's important to be aware of the firepit restrictions in Green Bay, WI.

Recreational Fire Regulations:

The City of Green Bay has specific regulations in place for recreational fires, including fire pits. These regulations are outlined in Chapter 18 of the City's Code of Ordinances, under Section 18-66: Recreational fires, cooking fires and fire pits.

Common FAQs:

Do you need a fire permit for a fire pit in Wisconsin?

Do you need a burn permit for a fire pit in Wisconsin?

Both questions, however you may word it, have the same answer. For fires that are created for the intent to eliminate debris or form a campfire ring, a DNR burning permit is required. However, smaller fires used for cooking or keeping warm, a DNR burning permit is not required except while an Emergency Burning Restriction is in place for the local area.

Key points to remember:

• Permits: No permit is required for a recreational fire pit on residential property zoned for single- or two-family dwellings.

• Location: Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from any building, structure, combustible material, or property line.

• Size: The fire pit itself cannot exceed 3 feet wide by 3 feet long or 3 feet in diameter.

• Flames: Flames must not be higher than 3 feet.

• Containment: The fire pit must be contained in a non-combustible area, such as a pit dug into the ground or surrounded by bricks or stones.

• Extinguishing: Always have a water source or fire extinguisher readily available to extinguish the fire safely.

Additional Considerations:

• Burning Permits: While a permit is not required for recreational fires, a burning permit may be needed if you are burning brush, leaves, or other yard debris. You can obtain a burning permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

• Emergency Burning Restrictions: The DNR may implement emergency burning restrictions during periods of high fire danger. These restrictions may prohibit all outdoor burning, including recreational fires.

• Neighbor Courtesy: Be mindful of your neighbors when using a fire pit. Consider the wind direction and smoke and avoid using the fire pit if it will bother your neighbors.

Resources:

City of Green Bay Fire Prevention and Control Code: https://library.municode.com/wi/greenfield/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH18FIPRPRCO

Wisconsin DNR Burning Permits: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/forestfire/permits

Staying Safe and Enjoying Your Firepit:

By following the firepit restrictions and practicing common sense, you can enjoy your fire pit safely and responsibly. Here are some additional tips for staying safe:

• Never leave a fire unattended.

• Keep children and pets away from the fire.

• Use only dry firewood.

• Don't use gasoline or other accelerants to start the fire.

• Drown the fire completely with water before leaving the area.

With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit in your Green Bay backyard all year round.

Remember: Always check the current fire danger conditions before starting any outdoor fire. You can find up-to-date information on the Wisconsin DNR website or by calling your local fire department.

I hope this information helps! Have a safe and enjoyable time using your fire pit.

Please note: The information in this response is based on the City of Green Bay's Code of Ordinances and the Wisconsin DNR's regulations. It is always best to check with your local fire department for the most up-to-date information on fire safety regulations in your area.