Recreational Fire Permits

Recreational fires are permitted under Section 34-94 of the City of Portage Code of Ordinances. They are subject to the provisions of the Code and all associated rules and regulations.  Original permits will be issued to property owners only after an inspection of the site of the proposed fires.  Permits are valid for two years.  If the permit has not yet expired, a renewal may be granted without a re-inspection if no complaints have been received during the previous permit period.  A re-inspection is required for expired permits.  It is the responsibility of the permit holder to apply for a renewal if one is desired.  A permit is not required for a commercial outdoor fireplace or similar device; however, the rules and regulations for recreational fires must still be followed, as detailed below.  The current fee for a recreational fire permit inspection is $20. The permit renewal fee is $5.  Please submit a request for a permit through the link below, or contact the Fire Division at 329-4487 for more information or to schedule an inspection.  

Regulations For a Recreational Fire:

  • A recreational fire shall be constantly attended by a competent adult of 18 years or older until such fire is extinguished.

  • A garden hose connected to a water supply must be readily available any time a fire is kindled in addition to any other fire extinguishing equipment that may be present.

  • Materials to be burned must be in a pile no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.

  • No fire may be kindled when the wind speed is 10 mph or greater.  If wind speed increases to in excess of 10 mph the fire must immediately be extinguished.

  • All fires must be extinguished prior to midnight.

  • Fires are for recreational or cooking purposes only. Burning of leaves, brush or other yard waste or construction waste is expressly prohibited.

  • The permit holder will be responsible for the abatement of conditions that cause complaints from others.  This includes heavy smoke, noxious odors, floating debris, etc.

  • Violations of the rules and regulations can cause the fire to be extinguished and the possible issuance of a civil citation for a violation of the adopted fire code.


Fire Pits:

  • All recreational fires must be in an approved fire pit.

  • Fire pits must be at least 25 feet from all structures (per City ordinance) and 25 feet from property lines, if possible.  Pits closer than 25 feet from a property line require written approval from the neighboring property owner.

  • Fire pits must have a diameter no greater than three feet.

  • The fire pit must be lined with non-combustible material, such as brick or rock and must have a bare earth inside the liner.
  • Fire pits cannot be built under low-hanging branches or other combustible materials.

Follow this link to complete and submit a Recreational Fire Permit.