← Illinois burn ban rules›Campfire Rules
Illinois Campfire Rules (2026)
Permitted: Campfires and bonfires are allowed on private property or in designated public areas, subject to local ordinance and so long as they do not create a nuisance or pollution problem.
Campfires and bonfires are allowed on private property or in designated public areas, subject to local ordinance and so long as they do not create a nuisance or pollution problem. Burning of garbage is always prohibited.
Official source: epa.illinois.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Campfire Rules in states bordering Illinois
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- IndianaPermitted
Recreational and ceremonial fires (e.g., campfire cooking, scouting) are exempt and allowed in all counties unless a local ordinance or county burn ban prohibits them. Fires cannot be used for disposal and must be extinguished if they create a hazard or nuisance.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: in.gov · Full Indiana rule →
- IowaPermitted
Recreational fires for cooking, heating, recreation and ceremonies are an exempt use and generally allowed. A countywide burn ban does not prohibit grills, outdoor fireplaces, or permitted supervised burns. Local ordinances may be stricter.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: iowadnr.gov · Full Iowa rule →
- KentuckyConditional
Recreational fires are generally allowed but during fire hazard seasons must follow the 150-ft / 6 a.m.–6 p.m. woodland restriction. Burn only natural plant matter; check local fire department before burning.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: eec.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
- MissouriPermitted
Campfires and fires for recreation, ceremony, or noncommercial cooking are allowed statewide and may burn only vegetative/untreated wood. Keep fires at least 75ft from buildings, small, attended, and fully extinguished; you are liable for any escape.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.mo.gov · Full Missouri rule →
- WisconsinConditional
Small campfires for warmth/cooking generally do not require a DNR burning permit, but must be attended, contained, and fully extinguished; local ordinances may apply and county/state-forest or park rules can add restrictions during high fire danger.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.wisconsin.gov · Full Wisconsin rule →
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