The Fire Department operates a recreational fire permit program in order to track recreational fire locations and encourage safe burning practices. Recreational fire permit requirements are as follows:
- Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material, e.g. homes, sheds, fences, decks. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
- Recreational fires conducted in gas-fired recreational pits shall not be conducted within 15 feet of a structure or combustible materials.
- Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material.
- Recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose shall be available for immediate utilization.
- The maximum pile size is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height.
- Only burn clean, dry, seasoned firewood. Material shall be ignited with a small quantity of paper only.
- Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or the required permit for recreational fire has not been obtained, the fire department is authorized to order the extinguishment of the fire.
- Failure to comply with this permit shall result in a citation under the Ohio Fire Code and the North Ridgeville Codified Ordinance 1620.99.
Recreational fire permits are issued at no cost to the property owner and are good for the entire year in which they are issued. To obtain a Recreational Fire Permit, complete the request form below.