Clark County Interim Fire Marshal lifts ban on recreational fires

The residential recreational burn ban is lifted in unincorporated Clark County effective at 12:01 am Tuesday, Sept. 17 due to cooler temperatures and forecast.

Under the modified ban, burning yard debris and material from land clearing will continue to be prohibited until at least Sept. 30, if not longer, depending on fire conditions.

Beginning Tuesday morning for the unincorporated county areas, recreational fires will be allowed in approved fire pits.  

Recreational campfires in local county parks and commercial campgrounds are allowed only in approved fire pits. On private land, recreational fires must comply with the following regulations:

• Fires must be built in metal, rock or masonry-lined pits, such as those in established campgrounds or sold in home and garden stores.
• Fires cannot exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in height.
• Fires must be at least 25 feet from structures or combustible materials and have at least 20 feet of overhead clearance from tree limbs, patio covers and carports.
• Portable outdoor fireplaces, also known as patio fireplaces, designed to burn solid wood should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material and must always be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to campfires.
• Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person, at least 16 years old, who can extinguish the fire using a shovel and at least five gallons of water in one or more containers or a connected hose with the water turned on.
• Fires must be extinguished by pouring water or shoveling moist soil onto flames and coals and stirring until all areas are cool to the touch.

The use of burn barrels is illegal in unincorporated Clark County.

These regulations pertain only to areas outside city limits. Residents in cities should check with their municipality for regulations on recreational fires and other outside burning.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is everyone's responsibility! All outdoor fires must be constantly attended by an adult until the fire is extinguished. Provide adequate means for extinguishing a fire and keep it readily available. Don't burn if wind conditions make it hazardous to do so. Adhere to the fire safety requirements listed on your permit.