Burn Pile Size & Setback Calculator — Is My Pile Legal?

Check Your Burn Pile Setup

Your State

Pile Width feet

Pile Length feet

Pile Height feet

Distance to Nearest Structure feet from house/garage/shed/fence

Distance to Nearest Road feet from public road

Distance to Neighbor's Structure feet from neighbor's home

Setback Requirements by Burn Type

Burn Type	From Your Structure	From Neighbor's Structure	From Public Road	Cleared Perimeter
Residential yard debris (most states)	25–50 ft	50–150 ft	50 ft	10 ft
California residential (SRA)	50 ft	100 ft	50 ft	10 ft, 4×4 ft max pile
Land-clearing burn	500 ft	500 ft	250 ft (wind toward road)	25 ft
Agricultural burn	Varies by state	Varies	250–500 ft	25 ft
Silvicultural / prescribed	Coordinated with agency	Agency determined	Agency determined	Varies

These are general guidelines based on common state rules. Your specific state and local rules may differ. Always verify with your state forestry agency before burning. See the Safe Burn Setup Guide for full detail.

Pile size tip: A pile you can fully wet down with one garden hose is the right size. Most experienced burn operators recommend keeping piles under 10 feet in diameter even when larger piles are technically permitted — controllability is more important than maximum legal size.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides guidance based on common state rules. Actual setback and size requirements vary significantly by state, county, and burn type. Always verify requirements with your state forestry commission before burning. This tool does not constitute legal advice.