Fire Department Permits

Recreational Fire Ring Permit Application

A permit is required for each recreational fire not in a permanent fire ring. A permit is required to construct, maintain and use a permanent fire ring, though a separate permit is not needed for each fire within a lawfully existing fire ring.

A recreational fire is the burning of materials other than rubbish (clean wood) where fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace or barbeque pit and with a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, or similar purpose.

Fees for a recreational fire (not in a permanent fire ring) are $15 each occurrence and $25 for a permanent fire ring.

Permanent fire rings must be constructed of concrete, steel or other approved noncombustible materials. For approval of other materials, contact the Fire Marshal at
651-450-2547. 

Permanent fire rings must be at least 25 feet away from a structure or combustible material and conditions which could cause the spread of fire to within 25 feet of a structure must be eliminated. Permanent fire rings must extend at least six inches below ground and extend at least six inches above ground. The area around a permanent fire ring must be cleared of all grass and vegetation for at least five feet.

Open Burning Policy

Open burning restrictions issued by the DNR change with the weather and the severity of the fire threat. Please go to the DNR's burning restrictions webpage to find out the current burning restriction status.

Open burning and recreational fire permits can be obtained by providing the completed application and fee to the Fire Department at Inver Grove Heights City Hall, 9200 Courthouse Boulevard.

Open Flame Prohibited
Fire Code prohibits fires, open flame, and barbecues on balconies and patios.

In any structure containing three or more dwelling units, no person may kindle, maintain, or cause any fire or open flame on any balcony above ground level, or on any ground floor patio within 15 feet of the structure.

In any structure containing three or more dwelling units, no person may store or use any fuel, barbecue grill, torch, or other similar heating or lighting device on any balcony above ground level, or on any ground floor patio within 15 feet of the structure.

• Exception: listed electric or gas-fired barbecue grills that are permanently mounted and wired or plumbed to the building’s gas supply or electrical system and that maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches on all sides; unless listed for lesser clearances, may be installed on balconies and patios when approved by the Fire Marshal. 
• Note: Liquefied petroleum gas (LP) is prohibited.

A city license is required for contractors performing Commercial Cooking Ventilation Systems / Hood Cleaning. Contractor licenses are valid for the calendar year. Download and complete the Contractor License Application and Certificate of Insurance forms.

Commercial kitchens are required to submit a Commercial Hood and Ventilation Cleaning Permit each time the hood and ventilation system is cleaned. The applicant must be a contractor with a City Contractor License. Please submit completed applications by mail to 9200 Courthouse Blvd., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077 or by emailing the Inver Grove Heights Fire Department. See the City Contractor License tab for more information on how to receive a license.