1. Create a Citizen Access account
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.
2. Make sure you have time to apply
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.
3. Talk to your neighbors
Please check with your neighbors located within 120 feet of your property before you pay the fee to apply for a permit. If any of them submits a written objection within 21 days, your application may be denied. We'll review all submitted objections on the basis of public health, safety, and welfare to determine if a permit may be issued.
4. Review the requirements
Property requirements
- No more than 2 dwelling units
- Have written permission from the property owner, if you're renting
Recreational fire location
Recreational fire pits may only be placed in the back yard or side yard and need to meet the following distance requirements:
- 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
5. Draw a site plan
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 the property owner.
6. Have your credit/debit card ready
You’ll need to pay the non-refundable permit application fee. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover for online payments.
7. Apply online
Login to Citizen Access and choose the Planning Applications category using the link below.
8. We’ll review your application
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.
9. What happens next
We’ll notify your neighbors of your application and they'll have 21 days to submit a written objection.
- If a neighbor objects in writing within 21 days, their objection will be reviewed by City staff on the basis of public health, safety, and welfare. If an objection is accepted, the application will be denied.
- If no objections are received or accepted, we'll send your permit by email.
This process takes about a month.
10. Enjoy your recreational fire
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
Please note that the City reserves the right to revoke your permit or restart the notification process based on a pattern of violations.
11. Reapply after the first year
Your permit is only valid for one year. After one year, you'll need to renew your permit, at which time we'll restart the neighbor notification process.
We'll send you an email with instructions on how to renew the permit before yours expires.
