How to (Legally) Host a Beach Bonfire in South Walton

There’s something about bonfires on the beach under the stars that make us feel more connected. And South Walton’s sugar-white sand and starry nights set the perfect stage for a beach bonfire party, full of marshmallow roasting, gooey s’mores, and gentle waves lapping in the distance.

Before you build your blaze, there are a few best practices for beach bonfire safety you need to know.

We sat down with Brian Kellenberger, Director of Beach Operations, to learn the rules designed to keep visitors safe and the beach pristine when it comes to hosting beach bonfires in South Walton.

Read on for more safe beach bonfire tips for South Walton visitors!

Beach Bonfire Set-Up at Sunset in South Walton

Q: Do I need a permit?

Yes. Permits must be obtained through the South Walton Fire District. Applications are processed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 911 N. County Highway 393 in Santa Rosa Beach. The total fee per beach bonfire is $100 cash/check or $105 for credit card payments (including $5 processing fee), but the penalty for lighting a fire on the beach without a permit is $500.

Submit an online Walton County bonfire permit request or call (850) 267-1298 to get started.

Want to leave the work to the pros? A variety of companies in South Walton are more than happy to acquire permits on your behalf, manage beach bonfire equipment rental, and handle the set-up and clean-up for you:

Q: Where can I have a bonfire in South Walton?

A: Bonfires are allowed on the majority of beaches within South Walton (parks are regulated by the state of Florida). Applicants wishing to obtain a permit for a private location must have and present written permission from the property owner during the application process.

Q: Are there certain times of day/year when bonfires are allowed?

A: From March 1st to October 31st, bonfire pits and fire-building materials cannot be placed on the beach before 5:00pm, and cleanup must be completed by midnight. From November 1st to the last day of February, bonfire pits and fire-building materials cannot be placed on the beach before 4:00pm, and any cleanup must be completed by 11:00pm. And in the case of unsuitable wind or weather conditions before or during the bonfire, your permit for that day might be revoked.

Q: What requirements/rules must I follow?

A: To obtain a bonfire permit, you must be at least 18 years old. The person who obtains the permit must be present during the hours the bonfire is held and the approved permit must be on-site. Fire and law enforcement officials have the right to check for permit compliance.

During turtle season (May 1 – October 31), turtle season bonfire rules apply. Bonfires must maintain a distance of 200 feet from any turtle nest, and 50 feet from vehicles, public roads, structures, and vegetation.

Bonfire containers must be used and approved by the SWFD at the time of permit issuance. Approved containers include galvanized metal tubs, fire pits, or burn barrels no larger than four feet in diameter. Keep in mind that there is a required three-foot clearance from any combustible materials at all times. It’s a good idea to keep water or a fire extinguishing device nearby.

Q: Am I responsible for cleaning up the bonfire when I’m done?

A: Yes. When you are through with your bonfire, all ashes and bonfire supplies must be doused with water and removed from the beach. The idea is to leave the beach in the same condition it was before you arrived. Bonfire pits and any evidence or remnants of fires must be removed from the beach by designated times and cannot be deposited in TDC beach garbage collection stations.

For more information about 30A beach bonfires, visit the South Walton Fire District website or call (850) 267-1307.