We know many residents are enjoying the warm weather by spending a lot of time outdoors. That has sparked several questions from our residents about outdoor fire places and fire pits.

City of Shawnee ordinance number 8.20.030 does allow the use of outdoor fire places, without a permit, for personal enjoyment and non-commercial food preparation when certain conditions are met:

• Fires are not allowed between the hours of 1:00am to 8:00am.

• Seasoned firewood should only be used for outdoor fireplaces. The burning of residential yard waste without a burning permit is not allowed. 

• All burning shall be attended by a responsible resident of the property that is at least 18 years of age at all times.

• When the fire is not attended, the fire should be completely extinguished. 

• The use of gasoline or other accelerants cannot be used to start the fire.
  
  

The Shawnee Fire Department also recommends:

• All outdoor fireplaces should be kept 10 feet from any combustible structures.

• Watch children while the fire is burning. Keep a 3 feet kid free zone around the fire.

• Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, or sand to extinguish the fire.  

• If the smoke is bothering your neighbors, be respectful and extinguish the fire.