Open Burning & Fire Pits

Open Burning is prohibited within the boundaries of the City of Waukee pursuant to Waukee Municipal Code.  This does not apply to small outdoor fires typically used for entertainment, ceremonial, cooking, or other similar purposes.  These are permitted under certain circumstances.  See below under Recreational Fire Conditions.

  • An application for an open burning permit application may be submitted via the city's application portal. After reviewing the application, in some instances a permit may be issued by the Fire Chief. The responsible party must provide the signed permit that was issued upon request. If you have questions about open burning - you may reach out the Waukee Fire Marshal's division at 515-978-7998.

It is NOT permitted to burn rubbish/refuse which includes yard waste, tires, garbage or plastics.

Control of Fire/Attendance

  • Fires shall be constantly attended by a competent person until the fire is fully extinguished.
  • The attendant shall have access and knowledge to use an approved fire extinguishing equipment such as; portable fire extinguisher, water truck, garden hose, dirt, sand or water barrel.
  • Any permit granted requires that a reliable water supply, under pressure, must be available by hose line within 20 feet of the burn site.

Recreational Fire Conditions

  • Burning may not take place under any circumstances when the wind is in excess of 15 mph or any burning bans are in place by the City, County or State.
  • Any fire not within a portable outdoor fireplace shall be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material.  Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. 
  • Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material.
  • Any fire greater than 3 feet in diameter and/or two feet in height requires a permit.
  • Multi-family dwellings (apartments, condominiums) are not permitted to have charcoal burners or other open-flame devices (including any device that produces ashes or embers) within 25 feet of any structure or combustible material.  

Cooking devices in multi-family dwellings (apartments and condominiums)

Charcoal burners, other open-flame cooking devices and other devices that produce ashes or embers, shall not be operated on balconies or within 25 feet of any structure or combustible material.  LP-gas cooking devices having one LP-gas container with a capacity not greater than 20 pounds may be operated per manufacturer’s instructions.

Penalty
Violating any provisions of this ordinance shall be guilty of a simple misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days. Each day upon which such violation occurs after a notice shall constitute a separate violation.

The Fire Department does have the authority to order the extinguishing of a fire when the open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation or if a permit was required but was not obtained. An outdoor fire is prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous or a nuisance.

Please use good judgment and common sense and respect your neighbors.

Call 515-978-7998 to speak with a member of the Waukee Fire Department. Of course, call 911 in the event of a fire emergency.