Recreational Fires

Example of a Recreational FireRecreational fires are outdoor fires that burn only wood. They shall not be used for the disposal of yard waste, construction materials, or common household trash, and leaves, trash, or garbage must not be burned or used as starting material.

Recreational Fires Permit

If you plan to have a recreational fire, you will need a permit. Permits are free and are valid until December 31 of the year issued. Please review the requirements below before applying.

Apply/Renew Online

Once you've submitted your application, you will receive an email confirmation (if you supply a valid email address) that will serve as your permit.

Apply/Renew In Person

Visit the Public Safety building at 7800 Golden Valley Road in Golden Valley, Mon–Fri, 8 am–4:30 pm.

Requirements for the Fire Site

  • The fire must be a safe distance away from any structure (25 feet is a recommended safe distance) and 10 feet from all property lines.
  • The fire must be contained within an area:
  • Three feet or less in diameter and three feet or less in height
  • Completely surrounded by non-combustible and non-smoke- or odor-producing material (either natural rock, cement brick, tile, or block of metal only)
  • Depressed below ground, on the ground, or on a raised bed (this includes manufactured fireplaces)
  • A garden hose or other adequate means of extinguishment shall be available for emergency purposes.

You will lose your permit for one year for violating any of these provisions.

See the complete recreational fire ordinance in City Code Chapter 12-23.

Conditions Required For The Fire

  • Fire must be constantly attended to by a responsible person over age 18 until extinguished. Fire must be fully extinguished when unattended.
  • During the time a recreational fire is burning, the Recreational Fire Permit must be available upon request by the City Manager or designee.
  • Winds cannot exceed 10 miles per hour (check the National Weather Service for current weather and wind conditions).
  • No flammable or combustible liquid shall be used.
  • Leaves, trash, or garbage must not be burned or used as starting materials.
  • The wood shall be clean and produce little detectable smoke or odor.
  • The City Manager or designee is authorized to require that recreational fires be immediately discontinued if smoke emissions are offensive to occupants of surrounding properties or if the City Manager or designee determines that the fire constitutes a dangerous condition or public nuisance.
  • When prohibited by the action of any state or federal agency, recreational fires are not permitted. To assure campfires/recreational fires are allowed, check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for burning restrictions.