Rules on having outdoor fires

With the warmer weather, some are spending more time outside and enjoying outdoor fires. Following these Minneapolis laws will help keep our neighborhoods safe and livable:

• Outdoor fires are permitted between 9am and 10pm.

• Keep the fire small—less than three feet in diameter and two feet high.

• Postpone a fire when Minneapolis is under an air pollution advisory. Fires release fine particles that contribute to air pollution and are implicated in some health problems including strokes, heart attacks, and asthma. Sign up for air quality alerts at http://mn.enviroflash.info.

• Burn only untreated, unpainted, dry wood. Never burn cardboard boxes, trash or debris, because the smoke can be toxic.

• The fire must be at least 25 feet away from a structure or combustible material and in a fire ring or pit with edges more than six inches high.

• Have a hose or fire extinguisher present.

• Postpone the fire when the wind exceeds 10 mph.

• The fire must constantly be attended by someone 18 years or older and completely out before being abandoned. Illegal open burning or recreational fires could result in fines that start at $200.

These simple suggestions could help neighbors be considerate of each other when having a fire:

• Letting neighbors know when planning a fire.

• Postponing a fire when smoke will blow directly at a neighbor’s house or when still weather conditions prevent smoke from moving away at all.