Due to the requirements of the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Utah State Division of Air Quality, and Salt Lake County, this city, in conjunction with other jurisdictions, does not allow open burning or issue burn permits for the purpose of burning yard waste and garbage. However, the International Fire Code does allow for some types of Recreational Burning for events such as cooking fires, ambience for gatherings, and training under tight and stringent rules and regulations for the benefit and safety of the Community.

Rules of Safety

Conditions (International Fire Code 307.1.1)

Open burning shall be prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous.

Area (International Fire Code 307.4.1)

  • A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15,240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated before ignition.
  • Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7,620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated before ignition.
  • Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet (3,048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.

Safety and Equipment (International Fire Code 307.5)

Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires, and the use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. At least one portable fire extinguisher, meeting Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating, or other approved on-site fire suppression equipment such as dirt, sand, a water barrel, garden hose, or water truck, must be readily available for immediate use.

Cause for Cancelling the Event (International Fire Code 307.3)

Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of the open burning operation.

Information

Before the event, it is required that the neighbors be notified of the time and location of the fire event. VECC or Dispatch must be informed of the fire by calling 801-840-4000. They will require: 

  • The address of the burn
  • The name of the responsible person on scene
  • The phone number of the responsible person
  • The time the fire is to be ignited and the approximate time of extinguishment.
  • Dispatch must be notified when the fire is extinguished.
  • VECC may deny or cancel the fire event for cause.

For more information, please reference the 2021 International Fire Code.