Backyard Fire Safety in Calgary: What You Need to Know Before You Light That Fall Fire

As the fall air starts to roll in, there's nothing better than cozying up around a backyard fire. Sipping a warm drink, roasting marshmallows with the family, or just soaking in those crisp Calgary evenings, backyard fires can be a great way to enjoy the season.

But before you strike that match, there are a few things you need to know to keep your home, family, and neighbors safe.


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How Far Should Your Fire Pit Be from the Home?

When setting up a backyard fire pit in Calgary, location is everything. You want to create a cozy, social space while keeping safety top of mind:

  • Distance from structures: Place your fire pit at least 10–15 feet away from your house, garage, fences, or sheds. This reduces the risk of sparks catching nearby materials.

  • Clear of vegetation: Avoid trees, shrubs, or dry grass. Overhanging branches can ignite quickly, especially during Calgary’s dry summer months.

  • Stable ground: Position your fire pit on flat, non-flammable ground like gravel or stone. Avoid wooden decks or uneven surfaces where a fire could spread.

These safety tips are smart practices for any homeowner, but in Calgary there are also official fire pit bylaws that set out exactly what is and isn’t allowed. Knowing both ensures you stay safe and compliant.

Calgary Fire Pit Bylaws

According to the City of Calgary, backyard fire pits must meet these rules: 

  • Construction & size: Fire pits must be built into the ground, made from a fire-proof container under 0.75 m tall, or placed on a non-combustible surface like brick or stone. Fires must not exceed 1 m in height or width.

  • Placement: Fire pits must be at least 2 m away from property lines, houses, garages, fences, and anything flammable.

  • Spark screen required: Mesh or spark guards must have openings no larger than 1.24 cm to keep embers contained.

  • Approved burn materials only: Only clean, dry firewood is allowed. It’s illegal to burn painted, treated, glued, or wet wood; yard waste; garbage; plastics; rubber; or furniture.

  • Supervision & hours: Fires must be supervised at all times and fully extinguished by midnight (Sunday–Thursday) or 1 a.m. (Friday–Saturday).

  • Fire ban compliance: Always check if a Fire Ban is in place before starting a fire. Violations carry fines of $500–$5,000.

  • Smoke nuisance laws: Creating smoke that disturbs neighbours violates the Community Standards Bylaw, with fines ranging from $100–$5,000.

Fire Bans, Why Fire Bans Matter:

Fire bans are enacted when the risk of wildfires or grass fires is particularly high. During these times, even small backyard fires can pose significant risks to your property, your neighbors, and the environment. Calgary can be prone to dry conditions in the summer, and an open flame can quickly spread, especially if wind speeds increase.

How to Check for Fire Bans:

  • Calgary’s Fire Department Website: The Calgary Fire Department provides up-to-date information on any fire bans or restrictions in place. Visit the official site or follow their social media channels for alerts.

  • Fire Ban Hotline: Call the Fire Ban Hotline (403-268-4636) for current restrictions and fire-related information.

  • Local News and Community Alerts: Check with local news outlets or the city’s emergency alert systems for real-time updates on fire bans, especially during periods of dry weather.

What to Do If There's a Fire Ban:

If there's a fire ban in place, it’s crucial that you do not light your fire pit until the ban is lifted. Breaking fire ban rules can result in fines or other penalties, and more importantly, it could put your home and community at risk. Instead of an open flame, consider using a gas-powered fire pit or an outdoor heater if you still want to enjoy the ambiance without breaking the rules.

Always Check for Fire Bans (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

Enhancing Outdoor Living Spaces: The Value of Fire Pits and Backyard Features

Adding outdoor features like fire pits not only enhances your backyard experience but also increases the overall value of your Calgary home. Whether it's for enjoying cozy fall evenings or entertaining guests, a well-designed fire pit can transform your outdoor space into a functional, inviting retreat. 

When considering a backyard upgrade, think about how it will appeal to potential buyers as well. Features like a fire pit, comfortable seating, and beautiful landscaping can significantly improve the aesthetic and livability of your home, making it more attractive in a competitive market. Homes with attractive outdoor lounging spaces tend to sell faster and at higher prices.

In fact, a fire pit is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make. It has a relatively low installation cost compared to major renovations, yet it provides a high return on investment by boosting your home’s appeal and overall marketability. Whether you’re planning to sell in the near future or simply looking to enjoy your outdoor space more, a fire pit is a smart addition.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips

Once your fire pit is set up in a safe location and you’ve checked Calgary’s fire ban status, follow these key safety practices to keep your backyard fire enjoyable and risk-free:

  • Never leave a fire unattended: A fire pit, no matter how small, should always have someone watching it. If you need to step away, assign another adult to keep an eye on it.

  • Keep water or an extinguisher close: Have a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher nearby to put out sparks or emergencies quickly.

  • Burn only safe materials: Stick to clean, dry, seasoned wood. Avoid garbage, plastics, or pressure-treated lumber, which release harmful toxins and can flare dangerously.

  • Control the size of the fire: Backyard fire pits in Calgary are for small, contained fires—not bonfires. Keeping flames low reduces risk and smoke.

  • Check wind conditions: Gusts of wind can carry sparks farther than you’d expect. If it’s windy, skip the fire until conditions are calm.

  • Use a spark screen: A mesh cover helps contain embers and prevents them from escaping into nearby yards, trees, or structures.

  • Keep kids and pets at a distance: Establish a safe zone around the fire pit so children and pets don’t accidentally get too close.

  • Keep the surrounding area clear of objects and items: Ensure there are no objects or items in the radius of the firepit where someone could trip and fall into or onto the fire. Fires burning at night means it is harder to see things around the fire pit so you want to be sure there is nothing that can cause someone to lose their balance and fall in any direction.  This includes things like rocks and sticks. Also, ensure that the ground is level with no holes or areas where someone can lose their footing.

  • Extinguish thoroughly: When the night’s over, pour water on the fire, stir the ashes, and repeat until everything is completely cool to the touch. This ensures no embers reignite later.

  • Cover your fire pit when not in use: A sturdy lid prevents debris and animals from getting inside, and keeps your pit ready for the next fire.

Enjoy Fall Fires—But Be Smart About It

Backyard fires are an excellent way to enjoy your outdoor space, but safety should always be the top priority. Ensure your fire pit is located far enough from your home, structures, and vegetation, and always stay informed about any fire bans in Calgary. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable outdoor fire experience without putting your property or the environment at risk.

Before lighting up your fire pit, take a moment to check local regulations, ensure you have proper safety measures in place, and always prioritize fire safety. Whether it's for roasting marshmallows or simply relaxing with friends, a well-managed fire can bring warmth and joy to your backyard gatherings.

Don’t Want a Fire Pit at Home? Book One with the City

If you love the idea of a fire but don’t want the work of installing or maintaining a backyard pit, the City of Calgary makes it easy. Public fire pits are available to book in parks across all four quadrants of the city, giving you all the warmth and atmosphere without the hassle.

They’re perfect for a family night out, a cozy gathering with friends, or even a unique way to mark special occasions outdoors. Each fire pit comes ready to use, with plenty of space for seating, access to nearby park amenities, and the peace of mind that everything meets City safety standards.

By booking a fire pit through Calgary Parks, you can enjoy the glow of an open flame in a beautiful outdoor setting—no setup, no cleanup, just lasting memories.

Backyard Fires in Calgary: Warmth with Responsibility

Backyard fires are one of Calgary’s timeless fall pleasures—bringing friends and family together under the crisp evening sky. But with that comfort comes responsibility. A fire pit isn’t just about ambiance; it requires safety and respect for your community. By following the City of Calgary’s fire pit bylaws, checking for fire bans before lighting up, and keeping basic safety practices in place, you can ensure every fire remains a source of warmth—not worry. Treat your backyard fire as part of Calgary living done right—safe, smart, and enjoyable for everyone.

Dusko Sremac - Calgary REALTOR®

Dusko Sremac – Calgary REALTOR® | Team Lead, REPYYC

Backyard fire pits are more than just cozy hangouts—they’re part of Calgary’s lifestyle. But as any seasoned homeowner knows, safety and smart upgrades add real long-term value. That’s where I come in. My team helps clients not only buy and sell homes but also understand how features like fire pits, outdoor spaces, and upgrades impact property value in Calgary’s market.

Thinking of enhancing your backyard—or selling a home with one? Let’s connect and put a plan together that balances comfort, safety, and resale value.

Posted by Cody Tritter on
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