Are Backyard Bonfires Legal in Rochester? What You Need to Know

Having a bonfire is one of those things that makes late summer and fall in Minnesota so great. But is that firepit in your backyard legal here in Rochester?

There's just something about sitting around a fire during a late summer evening here in Minnesota, right? Outdoor fire pits remain one of the hottest outdoor design trends here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and a backyard fire pit adds warmth and pizazz to any dull outdoor area.

But there are some unique regulations surrounding firepits. Some communities I lived in back when I was working in Wisconsin don't actually allow you to have any bonfires in your yard-- whether it's in a permanent fire pit in your backyard or in one of those portable fire pits that you can use anywhere, like on your driveway or patio.

ALSO INTERESTING: Can Putting An Umbrella Over Your AC Actually Save Money in Minnesota?

That got me wondering about the ordinances concerning fires here in Rah-Rah-Rochester. Are they legal? (I probably should have checked into this before we bought the portable fire pit that we use a few times every year in our backyard in northwest Rochester.)

As it turns out, though, yes they ARE legal here in Minnesota's Med City. But, according to the city of Rochester website, you're supposed to do this first:

"Before lighting your fire, let the Fire Department know you will be burning to prevent a visit from your local fire engine company.  Call Fire Dispatch at (507) 328-2830 and let them know the day and time you will be having a good time," the site notes.

Get our free mobile app

While recreational fires in your fire pit are, in fact, legal, other types of fires (like burning leaves, tree limbs and branches, and other yard waste) are NOT allowed. The city also listed some general safety tips to follow if you're going to have a fire:

+ Keep it small - less than 3 ft. diameter is the rule.
+ Best location - 25 ft. away from any house.
+ Using a grill or barbeque pit - it can be 15 ft. from any house.
+ Have water on hand - in case the fire gets out of hand, have a bucket with water handy to douse wandering flames.
+ When you're gone, put it out - unattended fires are dangerous.
+ Find these are other safety tips in the Recreational Fire handout.

Like I said, having a bonfire in the fall is just one of those things true Minnesotans do. Kind of like knowing how to say all of Minnesota's somewhat unique names. How many of the following do YOU know how to say? Keep scrolling to find out!

Listen to Curt St. John & Samm Adams
Weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. on Quick Country 96.5