Grilling banned as NJ imposes strict fire restrictions

🔥 Fire danger remains 'extremely high' in New Jersey
🔥 Nearly all open fires are now banned
🔥 Can you still use your grill and fire pit?

New Jersey has gone nearly an entire month without any measurable precipitation.

As of Thursday, the New Jersey State Drought Monitor lists 70% of New Jersey in a state of drought. Thirty percent of New Jersey is in severe drought.

The extremely dry conditions have turned New Jersey into a tinder box.

One stray spark can ignite the dry brush and just a light breeze can fan that into a massive wildfire.

The state uses a five-tiered fire danger rating system. "Extreme" danger is the highest rating, and that is the danger level currently declared for all of New Jersey.

NJ Forest Fire Service/Townsquare Media illustration

New Jersey also uses a three-tiered system of fire burning restrictions. The state is currently under Stage 3, or the most severe restrictions on open burning.

What does that mean?

Generally, all fires in wooded areas are now prohibited, except in specific circumstances.

Can my local town impose tougher restrictions?

Yes, they can.

Lawrence Township has banned all charcoal grills and fire pits until further notice.
(Facebook/Lawrence Township)

Local municipalities cannot relax statewide restrictions, but they can impose restrictions that go further.

Some towns have already banned all backyard charcoal grills or any form of open burning.

NJ Forest Fire Service/Townsquare Media illustration

Can I use my grill?

It depends on the type.

An elevated electric or gas grill can be used, but take note of your surroundings and make sure there are no other combustible materials around.

Charcoal fires are currently banned in wooded areas.

NJ Forest Fire Service/Townsquare Media illustration

Can I use my outdoor fire pit?

Maybe.

Open burning on the ground is prohibited.

According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, fires in wooded areas are prohibited "unless in an elevated prepared fireplace."

An elevated prepared fireplace must meet the following criteria:

🔴 Constructed of steel, stone, brick or concrete
🔴 Elevated at least one foot above the ground
🔴 Surrounded by a mineral soil radius no less than 10 feet

Backyard fire pits may be banned by your municipality.

Can I burn leaves, grass or trash?

No.

It is a violation of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code to do open burning at any time.

No open burning of any kind is allowed.

Can I have a bonfire?

Not likely.

Having a bonfire requires a permit, which is issued by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service in cooperation with local firewardens.

Firewardens may place any restrictions or special conditions on burning that local conditions may warrant.

Given the elevated forest fire risk, permits may not be granted.

What if I do it anyway?

Chances are, you'll be arrested.

You'll also be fined. A lot.

Violations may result in fines up to $5,000 and reimbursement of costs associated with extinguishing the fire.

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