Open Burning Information

There are three classifications of open burning allowed in the City of Bluffdale.

“Recreational” Fires

The fire code allows residents to have small recreational fires at their residence in a fire pit. The fuel area cannot exceed 6 feet diameter by 3 feet in height. Burning is limited to dry, clean, natural materials - no garbage, plastics, rubber, hazardous materials, oils, or construction waste.  Pressure treated or chemically modified lumber is also prohibited. 

  • Verify that it is a green burn day by checking the air quality forecast at the DEQ website or by calling 385-468-3837.
  • Keep open recreational fires 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials. Fire contained in an improved barbecue pit, or a portable outdoor fireplace, requires a minimum of 15 feet of clearance. LP or natural gas fire pits or grills require 10 feet of clearance.
  • Have a method of extinguishment readily available.  Keep a garden hose or bucket of water/sand close by.
  • Fires must be attended constantly until fully extinguished.
  • Fires that are “Offensive, Objectionable, or a Nuisance” do not have to be extinguished if all requirements are being met.  This is considered a civil matter between the parties involved.  The fire department will only extinguish fires if there is a hazardous situation.

“Open Burning” Fires

Anything over 1 acre
Open burning is only allowed in ditch banks and along fence lines from November 1st to May 31st if you live on anything over 1 acre. The Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, or Utah State Forester has the discretion to suspend open burning if there is an increased environmental or weather hazard. 

Smaller than 1 acre
Smaller lot sizes are not allowed to burn due to the potential of the fire exiting your property.

Ditch and Fence Line Burning
Please follow these steps for ditch and fence line burning.

  • Verify that it is a green burn day by checking the air quality forecast at the DEQ website or by calling 385-468-3837.
  • Contact the fire department non-emergency dispatch at 801-840-4000 to inform them of your burn. You must tell them if it will be a ditch bank or fence line, the duration, the location of the burn, and your contact number.
  • There cannot be any wind. If the fire spreads because of wind, you may be held liable for the cost of extinguishing the fire. If the wind kicks up or the burn index changes, the fire department may request the fire to be extinguished.
  • Make sure you have a water source close by.
  • The fire must be attended to constantly.

“Greenbelt” Fires - (contiguous agricultural land greater than 5 acres) 

  • To qualify for the "Greenbelt" exception you must work the land for a profit.
  •  Contact the fire department administration at 801-849-9441 during business hours to inform them of your agricultural burn. 
  • Further information will be provided based on individual circumstances.
  • The fire must be attended to constantly.