Warmer weather is here, or at least on the way – and the Plymouth Fire Department wants residents to safely enjoy outdoor activities, including recreational fires and barbecues this summer. 

All residents with recreational fires or barbecues in their summer plans should always use caution and follow the below guidelines.

Recreational fires (bonfires) are permitted in Plymouth if specific guidelines are followed. Recreational fires include in-ground or above-ground pits, fire rings, bowls, chimeneas, portable fire pits and other wood-burning devices. Mobile cooking devices such as hibachis, charcoal grills, wood smokers, propane or natural gas devices are not defined as recreational fires.

Recreational fire guidelines:

• Fires must be contained within a fire ring, pit or similar device.
• Fires must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet in height.
• Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure and the area within a 5-foot radius of the fire must be clear of combustible materials.
• Fire extinguishing equipment must always be readily available. This may be a fire extinguisher, garden hose or other equipment designed for such use.
• The fire must always be attended by at least one responsible person 18 years of age or older.
• Only clean, non-treated wood may be burned. Wood must be at least 1 inch in diameter and produce little smoke or odor.
• Flammable or combustible liquids, yard waste (branches, twigs, sticks, leaves or grass), garbage, recycling, plastic, furniture, construction materials or treated wood shall not be burned or used as starting materials.
• Winds must be less than 10 mph and blow away from nearby residences.
• Residents starting recreational fires must respect weather conditions, neighbors, burning bans and air quality so that nuisance, health or safety hazards are not created.
• Fires are prohibited when the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has declared a burning ban (fire danger level is at or above Very High) or the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert.

The fire chief, on-duty firefighters or police officers are authorized to order recreational fires to be immediately extinguished if smoke emissions are offensive, the fire constitutes a hazardous condition or if residents do not follow the set guidelines.

Fires larger than 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet in height are not classified as recreational fires and require an open burn permit. Visit plymouthmn.gov/openburnpermit for more information and to apply.

Plymouth follows the Minnesota State Fire Code regarding guidelines for fires or barbecues on balconies, patios or decks of multi-family dwellings. Minnesota State Fire Code guidelines are established to reduce risk and protect residents and their property if a connected dwelling catches fire. The below guidelines do not apply to single-family dwellings.

Recreational fire and barbecue guidelines for multi-family structures with three or more dwellings:

• Fires or portable barbecues are not allowed within 15 feet of the building.
• Fires or portable barbecues are not allowed on any balcony or deck.
• Grills that are permanently mounted, wired or plumbed to the building’s gas supply or electrical system, with a minimum of 18 inches open on all sides, may be installed on balconies and patios when approved by the fire chief.

Residents can visit plymouthmn.gov/recreationalfires for more information. For questions regarding regulations, contact a Plymouth fire inspector at 763-509-5120.