Open Burning Regulations

Ordinance

Recreational Fires

The City of Bowling Green does allow recreational type fires. A recreational fire is an outdoor fire, burning materials other than rubbish, and has a total fuel area of 3 feet or less diameter and 2 feet or less height. It must be used for cooking.

Location & Size

The minimum distance from a structure or combustible material shall be 15 feet if the fire is contained in an approved container. A Chiminea, metal ring, stone/brick, surrounds, outdoor fireplace, or a metal container with a wire mesh screen are examples of approved containers. Your recreational fire can be no larger than 3 feet or less diameter and 2 feet or less height.

If no approved container is utilized, the minimum distance from a structure or combustible material shall be 25 feet. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

Material to Burn

Only clean, seasoned, and dry fire wood can be used. Do not burn tree trimmings, yard waste, leaves, grass, trash or construction materials.

Attendance

Recreational fires shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A fire extinguisher, garden hose, water barrel, dirt or sand shall be available for immediate utilization.

Despite all precautions being taken, it will be at the discretion of the Bowling Green Fire Division to extinguish or have extinguished any fire that does not fall within these guidelines or that which could be considered a nuisance. The Fire Division will prohibit open burning that is offensive or objectionable due to smoke or odor emissions when atmospheric conditions make such fires hazardous or endangering to persons.

For more information view the Open Burning Guide (PDF).

Charcoal Grills & Other Open Flame Cooking Devices

The Ohio Fire Code states that charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. This includes charcoal, wood, gas, or electric.

Exceptions are:

  1. One and two family dwellings
  2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system

For more information view the City of Bowling Green's Overview of Grills for Apartment Owners and Renters (PDF).