Knowledge Base

Recreational Fires:

Backyard fire pits are allowed in Rochester.  Before lighting the 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.

Recreational fires are only permitted within the Rochester City Limits in accordance with Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 141. The burning of materials, other than rubbish, contained in an outdoor fireplace, barbecue grill, or pit and with a fuel area 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height, for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking or similar purpose.

Recreational Fire Requirement. Fire shall be conducted in accordance with the following: The purpose of the fire must be recreational and not to dispose of refuse, household waste, leaves, brush, trees, or construction materials. The fuel may only be charcoal, or firewood cut for that purpose. 

For more information, visit: Recreation Fires

For safety tips from the Rochester Fire Department , visit:

Recreational Fires and Open-Flame Cooking Handout

Open Burning vs. Recreational Fires:

Burning of leaves, sticks, and tree branches is not allowed in Rochester City limits. This includes the wood from your last building project, or the tree that fell down last summer. Open burning is prohibited within the Rochester City limits unless approval has been granted by special Fire Department Permit.

There is a $75 application fee and if approved a $300 permit fee. To receive a special permit, call 311 and ask for the Fire Department Admin or visit: Citizen Access

For more information, visit: Burning Permits

For outside Rochester City limits, The Department of Natural Resources offers online open burning permit services. To obtain a permit, visit: MN Department of Natural Resources Burning Permits