Show All Answers

1. Why are Burn Permits required?

The Fire Code of the City of Gulf Shores requires Burn Permits for the safety of all who live in and visit our beautiful area. Gulf Shores is unique in that our area has large numbers of people who live and play next to coastal woodlands with a constant sea breeze. Burn Permits help to ensure that fires are conducted in a safe manner to protect the permit holder and their neighbors.

2. What types of fires require a permit?

Any open burning requires a permit.
Exceptions- Fires contained in a commercially made outdoor fire place, BBQ Pit, or fire pit do not require a permit but the manufacturer’s guidelines are to be followed (open burning or cooking on balconies is illegal). Fires connected with Assembly (Church, Public Gatherings, Festivals etc.), Restaurants, Educational, Hot Work, Welding, Torches, Land Clearing and Bonfires require permits.

3. Are there any costs for a Burn Permit?

There is no charge for most burn permits. There are fees for land clearing permits.

4. Are there penalties for burning without a permit?

Yes. Under State and Local law those who burn without a permit are subject to civil and criminal penalties.

5. When is the Burn Season?

The burn season in Gulf Shores is November 1 through April 30. State Law bans open burning from May 1st thru October 31st in Baldwin County.

6. Can I have a fire on the Beach or Public Lands?

Fires on the beach or on public lands require an assembly permit. The City provides BBQ facilities at the Main Beach West Gulf Place.

7. Can I have a fire on my balcony?

Open fire or cooking (charcoal, gas etc.) is prohibited and illegal on balconies in Gulf Shores unless permitted by the Fire Marshal.

8. How do I report a fire alarm, fire code or safety issue?

To report a fire alarm, or a fire code or safety issue that is endangering someone please dial 911.
All reports other than above will be reviewed during normal business hours.
For more information please contact the Fire Marshal at 251-968-4292

9. Fireworks: Are fireworks legal in Gulf Shores?

No. It is illegal to sell or use fireworks in the City of Gulf Shores and the Police Jurisdiction.
Gulf Shores does have an assembly permit that could allow fireworks in certain circumstances. For more information on the assembly permit please contact City hall at 251-968-2425

10. Can I contact the Fire Marshal directly with an anonymous safety concern?

Yes but we ask that you dial 911 to report situations that immediately put people in danger.
The Fire Marshal can be reached at 251-968-4292

11. Does the Fire Department Perform Home Safety Inspections?

Yes we love to help make everyone safer. For more information on our residential safety programs and for a free home self inspection checklist click on the link below or call the Fire Marshal at 251-968-7422

12. Do you offer Fire and Life Safety Education classes?

Yes we are involved with programs in our local schools, churches, community clubs and much more.
Let us know what your needs are and we will work with you to set up a program.
For more information please contact the Fire Marshal at 251-968-7422