Outdoor Fire Information

Please Refer To This Page For All Outdoor Fire Ordinances Within Shaler Township

Generally Speaking…

If you have the desire to have an outdoor fire, we condensed the ordinances for you below. If you have questions, please refer to the Shaler Township Fire Ordinances in the link above. We want you to have a good, SAFE, time while burning outdoors!

Outdoor Chiminea, Portable Outdoor Fireplaces and Portable Outdoor Fire Pits

 Allowed if you follow these rules:

  1. Use the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Don’t overload fuel.
  3. Don’t burn rubbish or yard waste.
  4. Stay with the fire until it is completely out.
  5. Have a way to put out the fire nearby, such as a garden hose, fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating, or dirt/sand with a way to throw it on the fire.
  6. The fire must be at least 15 feet away from structures and combustible materials when burning near commercial buildings and apartment buildings with three or more units. For single-family or duplexes, we strongly recommend 15 feet as well.
Recreational Fires (i.e. campfires)

 Allowed if you follow these rules:

  1. The fuel area must be 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height (i.e. no larger than an ordinary campfire.)
  2. Don’t burn rubbish or yard waste.
  3. Keep the fire at least 25 feet away from structures and combustible materials.
  4. Don’t burn in conditions that could cause the fire to spread (such as extremely dry weather or high winds.)
  5. Stay with the fire until it is completely out.
  6. Have a way to put out the fire nearby, such as a garden hose, fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or dirt/sand with a way to throw it on the fire.
Burn Barrels

Allowed if you follow these rules:

  1. Do not burn rubbish or yard waste.  * Note: The burning of wood scraps in a steel drum or barrel at a construction site is allowed for warmth, but not allowed if you are using it to dispose of construction debris.
  2. Keep the fire at least 25 feet away from structures and combustible materials.
  3. Don’t burn in conditions that could cause the fire to spread (such as extremely dry weather or high winds.)
  4. Stay with the fire until it is completely out.
  5. Have a way to put out the fire nearby, such as a garden hose, fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or dirt/sand with a way to throw it on the fire.