Burning Regulations

Know the rules before you burn. Permits are required for all open burning within the City of Rockford, City of Greenfield, and Rockford Township.

⚠️ Prescribed Burns — Service Unavailable

Effective immediately, the Rockford Fire Department is unable to conduct or support prescribed field burns. This decision reflects rising emergency call volumes and the absence of certified prescribed burn personnel within our ranks. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our community as we focus our resources on emergency response and public safety. For questions, please contact the Rockford Fire Department directly.

Open Burning Rules

  • Burning is permitted in residentially zoned areas only
  • No burning is allowed on city streets or city-owned property without City Council approval
  • Burning within a manufactured home park is limited to a portable fireplace designed for that purpose
  • No burning within 15 feet of any building
  • Burning hours are 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. only
  • All fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person
  • No burning during an air pollution alert, warning, or emergency declared by the MN Pollution Control Agency or DNR

Brush Burning Season

Open burning of brush is permitted during the following periods per Minnesota Statutes 88.16 and 88.22:

  • April 15 – May 15
  • October 1 – October 31
  • Within two weeks following a major storm

Prohibited Materials

The following materials may never be burned:

  • Household trash or garbage
  • Plastics, rubber, or synthetic materials
  • Treated, painted, or stained wood
  • Tires or automotive materials
  • Chemicals or hazardous materials
  • Any material that produces excessive smoke or toxic fumes

⚠️ Burn Bans

Burning may be prohibited at any time during periods of high fire danger, drought conditions, or when a burn ban is declared by the Minnesota DNR or Pollution Control Agency. Always check conditions before burning. When in doubt, call the Rockford Fire Department.

Burn Permits

A burn permit is required before any open burning takes place within the City of Rockford. Permits are issued by the Fire Chief or designee, and will only be approved when there is no danger of fire spreading to adjacent structures or combustible materials. The permit may include conditions based on circumstances at the time of issuance.

How to Get a Permit

  • Hennepin County residents: Obtain your permit in person at Rockford City Hall
  • Wright County residents: Apply online through the Minnesota DNR burn permit system (link below)

Current Fire Restrictions

Before you burn, always check the current DNR fire danger and restrictions map to see if any burning restrictions are in effect in your area.

View the DNR Fire Restrictions Map →

Get Your Burn Permit

Wright County residents can apply for a burn permit online through the Minnesota DNR.

Apply for a DNR Burn Permit

🔥 Fire Pits

Fire pits are not considered open burning under the City of Rockford's ordinance and do not require a burn permit. However, all fire pits must comply with the following rules.

In-Ground & Permanent Fire Pits

A permanent or in-ground fire pit must meet the following requirements:

  • Maximum size of 3 feet by 3 feet
  • Must be attended at all times while in use
  • A charged garden hose must be in the immediate area and ready for use at all times
  • Must comply with all standard fire safety practices
Fire pit example 1 Fire pit example 2 Fire pit example 3

Portable Fire Pits

Portable fire pits (such as manufactured metal fire bowls or chimineas) are permitted and do not require a burn permit. The same safety rules apply:

  • Must be attended at all times while in use
  • A charged garden hose must be in the immediate area and ready for use at all times
  • Keep a safe distance from structures, fences, and overhanging branches
  • Place on a non-combustible surface — never on a wood deck
  • Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing
Portable fire pit example 1 Portable fire pit example 2 Portable fire pit example 3

Mobile Home Parks

Residents of mobile home parks are permitted to have outdoor fires; however, all burning must be done in a portable fireplace designed for that purpose. No open burning or in-ground fire pits are permitted within a mobile home park.

⚠️ Fire Chief Ban During High Fire Danger

During periods of high fire danger or drought conditions, the Fire Chief may issue an order banning all outdoor fires — including fire pits. Always check with the Rockford Fire Department before burning during dry or windy conditions.

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