Campfires
Under City Ordinance 16.32.015(3) campfires are allowed without a burning permit but are subject to restriction by the fire department at any time. Campfires include an outdoor open fire that is kindled and maintained within a noncombustible receptacle made and designed for such purpose if the fire is contained entirely within the receptacle and does not pose a threat to health, safety and welfare. Under no circumstances will such receptacle be used to burn plastics, trash, garbage or other products that might produce noxious fumes. There is a monetary penalty for not complying with this ordinance.
Noncombustible receptacles can be anything from a pre-built outdoor fireplace to one that is built by the homeowner using brick, stone, rock or cement. As of March 1, 2008, new campfires/burn pits need to be 25 feet away from a combustible like fences, houses and garages. This does not apply to existing campfire rings/pits—only new ones. The key to having a campfire is being responsible with it. Check to make sure that your campfire is a safe distance from any combustible item – house, fence or outbuilding. Check to make sure that campfire burning is currently being allowed. For example, during a DNR Red Flag alert the only outside burning allowed is the grilling of food, which has to be done on a noncombustible surface.
Persons can call the Fire Prevention Division at (715) 839-4825 to find out the status of campfire burning.
Another concern that has been shared with the fire department is the size of the campfire. How big can it be? As stated in the ordinance, the wood has to fit into the receptacle that you are using. It cannot be larger than the receptacle or hang out over the receptacle. You also need to be able to extinguish it with a garden hose or buckets of water. You cannot burn furniture or pallets—only clean logs of wood.
If you have any questions about campfires within the city limits of Eau Claire, call the Fire Prevention Division at (715) 839-4825.