We get a lot of questions about the rules for bonfires and camp fires in the area, and while bonfires aren’t allowed on the beach, there are other ways to enjoy open flames in the city.

At The Beach

You’ll find an absence of fire pits at the oceanfront as no fires of any kind are permitted on sandy beaches in the city. That said, people have been known to get away with lighting citronella torches at beaches like those in Sandbridge — Not that I’d condone such behavior…

At The Camp Site

Each campground has its own rules, but keep your fires in provided fire rings, and be sure to bring your own firewood to the campsite or purchase wood at a camp store. Collecting firewood in surrounding areas is generally not permitted.

Bonfires

Recreational fires are those smaller than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall, and must be 25 feet from any structure. Anything larger (but only up to 5x5x5!) is considered a bonfire and require permits that can be obtained here. They are permitted 50 feet from a structure, but not on the beach. Anything larger is not permitted. Be sure not to build your fire near any flammable material.

Check out the city’s regulations for open fires below, and remember to never leave a fire unattended and to always have the means to extinguish one. Stay safe and enjoy!

Source: https://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/fire/COP/Pages/Open%20Burning%20and%20Recreational%20Fires.aspx