You Might Be Breaking The Law With Your Backyard Bonfire In Grand Rapids

One of my favorite things about fall in Michigan is getting together with friends or family on a chilly night and spending it around a bonfire.

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Add in some adult beverages, good music and supplies to make s'mores and you can't ask for a better time.

I was talking with some of my friends about what weekend would work for all of us together at my place and hang out around a campfire.

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One of my friends asked if I had a permit for a bonfire and I thought he was joking but he wasn't.

It turns out if you want to have a bonfire in Grand Rapids and not break the law you have to submit for a permit.

Grand Rapids Recreational Fire Permit

If you go to the City of Grand Rapids website you'll be able to find out the details that go into getting a recreational fire permit, but let's take a look at some of the basics.

If you want to have a backyard fire with a gas firepit then you don't need a permit.

However if you're doing it old school with some good old wood then you'll need to apply for a permit which takes around 10 minutes.

Check With Your Neighbors

The city asks anyone applying for the permit to first check with your neighbors that are within 120 feet of your property before you pay the fee to apply for a permit.

If any of them submits a written objection within 21 days, your application may be denied.

Fires can only happen in a back yard or side yard and have to follow the following distance guidelines.

• At least 20 feet from any structure or combustible material
• At least 20 feet from any lot line, roadway, alleyway, or fence
• At least 15 feet from any overhead line

There are a lot more requirements you have to meet along with paying for the permit.

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If you're still interested in do so here is how you can apply.