Recreational Fires in Grapevine

Guidelines from the 2021 International Fire Code, Sections 307 & 308

What Is a Recreational Fire?

A recreational fire involves burning natural materials (not rubbish) with:

• A fuel area ≤ 3 feet in diameter and ≤ 2 feet in height.
• Purposes: Pleasure, cooking, religious, ceremonial, or similar activities (includes campfires).

Approved Fire Setups

• Outdoor Fire Pit: Designed for burning materials without a flue; gases release directly into the atmosphere.
• Outdoor Fireplace: Constructed to recognized standards with a flue, chimney, or duct (e.g., patio fireplaces, chimineas).

Prohibited Materials

• Do NOT burn: Leaves, trash, construction debris, or cut wood.
• Only natural wood logs or manufactured logs like Duraflame™ are allowed.

Location and Clearance

• Fires must be in a fire pit or appliance designed for burning (e.g., fire rings made of rocks, metal, or noncombustible bowls).
• Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from combustible vegetation.
• For appliances using natural gas or LP gas at one- or two-family homes, maintain at least 10 feet from combustibles and ensure installation complies with codes.
• Open campfires on bare ground without approved containers are prohibited.

Safety Requirements

• Fire-Extinguishing Equipment: Keep water, a shovel, or a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Supervision: Fires must be constantly attended by a competent person familiar with extinguishing tools.

Authority to Stop Fires

The Fire Chief or Fire Marshal can require fires to be extinguished if they:

• Pose a hazard.
• Produce excessive smoke or unpleasant odors.
• Violate city nuisance ordinances.