Flossmoor Lifts Ban on Fire Pits

Flossmoor residents itching to hold a bonfire in their backyards just got lucky. 

At the board’s regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 5, board members approved an amendment to the village’s ordinance, allowing residents to use fire pits in their backyards.

“This is a housekeeping item, keeping up with the amenities of suburban life,” said Village Manager Bridget Wachtel. “We recognize that people have outdoor spaces that accommodate prefabricated outdoor fireplaces or some sort of designed or outdoor setting where you can put one in.”

The new amendment sets guidelines on where a fire pit can be placed in a yard, what type of fuel sources can be used and more. Previously, the only open flames allowed outdoors were restricted to cooking purposes.

“We’ve always had a ban on burning leaves, garbage and other yard waste, this simply approves seasoned firewood and commercial logs,” Wachtel said.

The amendment also approves the use of propane fire pits, as well.

Fire pits must be no bigger than 6 square feet, positioned 15 feet from any structure and 10 feet from any property line.

For more information about the new fire pit regulations, contact the village at 708-798-2300.

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