Frequently Asked Questions

| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z |

Questions beginning with C:

Can I build a fireplace in my backyard?

If you live in the City, call the City Building Department at 970-221-6760. In the County, call the County Building Department at 970-498-7700.

Can I burn branches, grass, or weeds in the irrigation ditch in my backyard?

No. The use of the ditch belongs to the ditch company that maintains it. Fires set in ditches can easily get out of control. All open burning requires a permit from Fire Prevention.

Can I burn wood in a Chiminea or other outdoor burning appliance in my backyard?

Yes. But you must use only clean and dry fuel. Smoke can cause neighborhood problems, especially with neighbors with lung problems. Clean and dry fuel usually eliminates this issue. Burning should not take place during the winter when inversions are common. Call 970-416-2874 for questions regarding backyard fires.

Can I have a bonfire?

Recreational fires are limited to three foot by three foot in size and must have a permit from the Fire Prevention Bureau. Fires larger in size require the presence of off-duty firefighters and equipment at a considerable cost. For a large bonfire, click on the following link to send an email inquiry or call 970-221-6570 for costs associated with off- duty PFA personnel. Please send an email to BURN PERMIT REQUIREMENTS for information about cost and specific permit requirements.

Can I have a campfire in the mountains?

Within Forest Service lands, call the Canyon Lakes Ranger District at 970-295-6700 or stop by our office at 2150 Centre Avenue, Building E.

On private land in the mountains, check for burning restrictions at http://www.co.larimer.co.us/ or call the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office at 970-498-5100.

Can I have a pig roast?

Yes. There is no permit required when using a commercial pig roaster. Fires over 9 square feet or greater than 3 foot by 3 foot for cooking require a permit from the Fire Prevention Bureau. Also consider your neighbors and advise them you will be burning wood for a roast.

Code questions?

New Construction: Assistant Fire Marshal for Technical Services at 970-416-2864 or email to the following Technical Services Staff: FIRE SYSTEMS or call 970-416-2868; BUILDING REVIEW or call 970-416-2869 or 970- 970- 416-2875.