We use a third party application called Citizen Access for Recreational Fire Permit applications. If you've never used Citizen Access, we recommend that you review how to create an account before starting your application.
This application will take about 10 minutes once you’ve gathered all the required information identified below. You can save your application and resume later if you need more time.
Please check with your neighbors located within 100 feet of your property before you pay the $51 fee to apply for a permit. If any of them objects, we can't issue you a Recreational Fire Permit. We notify all of these neighbors:
- Property owners and occupants
- Properties across alleys, but not across public streets
If one neighbor objects, we have to deny your application.
Property requirements:
- 5,000 square feet (0.115 acres) in area
- No more than 2 dwelling units
- Have written permission from the landlord, if you're renting
Recreational fire location:
- At least 20 feet from any structure or combustible material
- At least 20 feet from any lot line, roadway, alleyway, or fence
- At least 15 feet from any overhead line
You can look up your property size on the City Assessors Property Search. Find your property and scroll down to the Land Information section. You'll find the total acres listed. If you can’t find your property size, give us a call at the number listed in the Contact Us section. We’ll look it up for you.
During the application process you will need to upload attachments.
You need to submit a site plan drawn to scale. You can use our Site Plan Template. Make sure to show the location of your fire container. You'll need to submit this in a digital format with your application.
Include all of this in your site plan:
- Location of all property lines
- All existing buildings or structures on the property
- Fences on the property or property line
- Location of overhead wires
- Location of the proposed fire container
- A garden hose, fire extinguisher, or other means of extinguishment readily available for immediate use
If you're renting, you'll need to upload written permission from your landlord.
You’ll need to pay the $51 non-refundable permit application fee. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover for online payments.
Expect to hear from us within 1-2 business days. We'll email you to confirm receipt of your application. Keep in mind that you might need to revise your application or attachments if we notice any missing or incorrect information.
We’ll notify your neighbors of your application by letter, which will lead to one of two results:
- We’ll deny your application if a neighbor objects in writing within 21 days of the notification
- We’ll deliver your permit by email if no neighbor objects
This process takes about a month.
Here are a few quick use guidelines for when you have your permit and are ready to have a recreational fire:
- Only seasoned dry firewood can be burned
- You're not allowed to burn yard waste, leaves, refuse, trash, building materials, or other materials (we care about the air you breathe)
- Burning is allowed between 7 AM and 10 PM
- An adult 18 years or older must be present at all times
Your permit is only valid for 1 year. You'll need to renew your permit after the initial year.
Don’t worry, we have your back. We'll send you an email with instructions on how to renew the permit before yours expires.