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Verify locally. This page reflects publicly available information as of May 2025. Always confirm with your local building department and fire marshal before building or operating any fire feature.
25 ft
Open fire setback
Required
Masonry permits
N/A
Curtailment season
None
Air quality authority

Overview

Fort Worth and Tarrant County have no air quality curtailment program for residential wood burning. Fort Worth's Development Services handles building permits and the Fort Worth Fire Department enforces fire code. The city's mix of older established neighborhoods and newer HOA-governed developments creates varying rule environments for outdoor fire features.

Building Permits

Fort Worth Development Services. Apply at fortworthtexas.gov/ds or call 817-392-8000. Permanent masonry fire features and gas connections require permits. Portable features do not. Plan check for residential accessories is generally 1–2 weeks.

Fire Code and Setbacks

Fort Worth enforces the International Fire Code with local amendments through the Fort Worth Fire Prevention Bureau. Standard 25-foot setback for open recreational fires applies. During extended drought, Tarrant County may issue burn bans that affect unincorporated areas and may come with city-level advisories for Fort Worth itself.

Department Contacts

DepartmentContactPurpose
Fort Worth Development Servicesfortworthtexas.gov/ds / 817-392-8000Building permits
Fort Worth Fire Preventionfortworthtexas.gov/fireFire code
Tarrant County (burn bans)tarrantcounty.comCounty drought/burn bans
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Need rules for a nearby city? See our full city directory or use the permit wizard for a quick permit summary.
Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only. Rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Always verify requirements with your local building department and relevant authorities. This is not legal advice.