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City of Falcon Heights > Fire Department > Fire Permits

Burning Permits

Residential Recreational Fires

There is no fee for residential recreational fire permits, but you must meet the following requirements.

Recreational Fire Requirements

  • Burn in a fire pit, fire ring, or other container designed for burning
  • Fire cannot exceed 3 feet in diameter
  • Fire must not be closer than 10 feet to any combustible material
  • Fire should be at least 25 feet from the nearest structure or vehicle
  • Only clean/unpainted/untreated wood can be burned
  • Fire extinguisher or hose must be accessible
  • Wind speed must be less than 10 miles per hour
  • Burn between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
  • Length of burn must be less than 4 hours

Inform the City Hall and the Fire Department in one of the following ways:

  • Fill out and submit our online form.
  • Call City Hall at 651-792-7600 during regular business hours (8:00am to 4:30pm, weekdays)
  • Or call 651-792-7600 after hours/on weekends and leave a voice mail message with the required information
  • Email
  • Come to City Hall front desk in person during regular business hours (8:00am to 4:30pm, weekdays)

Include all of the following in your message:

  • Name and address
  • Day and evening phone numbers
  • Date and time of call (not required on email)
  • Date and time of burn (start time and end time)

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What can I burn?

Burn only clean firewood for your health, for the health of our environment.
Burning any type of chemically treated wood and many types of painted wood...
    ...puts toxic pollutants into the air
        ...leaves toxic heavy metals in the ash

Burning trash is prohibited at all times, indoors and outside.

What about yard waste?
  • Branches and cut wood - yes, if it fits in your fire enclosure.
  • Leaves and general waste - NO!

Institutional Bonfires and Controlled Burns

  • A permit is required for these types of fires.
  • There is a fee for this type of fire permit. Contact City Hall for a quote.
  • Please give the City at least 2 business days notice, not including the date of the fire. Advance notice of one week or more would be appreciated.
  • Applicants should discuss burning plans with the Fire Chief before the permit is issued.
  • Additional safety restrictions will apply.

© 2006 City of Falcon Heights