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1. Does the city allow recreational fires?

Recreational fires for single family homes are allowed in the city when the following provisions are followed:

• The fire is contained to a three-by-three-by-three-foot area; this can be in-ground, on-ground, or in a free-standing pre-manufactured fireplace.
• Fire-extinguishing equipment (extinguisher, garden hose, or sand) must be readily available.
• Only clean burning wood can be used.
• The fire must be at least 25 feet from a combustible structure.
• Adult supervision is required from start to finish while having a recreational fire.
• All fires are subject to discontinuance by the Fire or Police Department.
• Recreational fires are not intended for disposing of yard debris or trash. Clean, dry firewood only. 
• Winds must be less than 15 mph.

Note: State-issued burning bans do not impact this policy. However, please be mindful that high winds and/or dry conditions require extra attention and safety for even the smallest fire. If in doubt, put it out! Questions about recreational fires can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

For more information on Recreational Fires, Click Here to visit our webpage.

2. Are barbeque grills or recreational fires allowed on decks, balconies, or patios?

The city ordinance prohibits any type of open flame on any balcony, above ground-level, or on any ground-floor patio within 15 feet of a structure where two or more units exist on more than one level. Open flames are prohibited unless each of the separate dwelling units has its own private means of ingress and egress. Fuel storage is also prohibited in such structures.

Electric or gas-fired barbecue grills that are permanently mounted, wired, or plumbed to the building’s gas supply or electrical system and maintain a minimum clearance per manufacturer instructions may be installed on balconies and patios when approved by the Fire Marshal. Please also check with your building management on allowing a mounted unit. 

Home owner associations (HOA) and building management may be more restrictive than city ordinance. 

Questions can be answered during regular business hours.

3. Why is my smoke alarm chirping when I have no smoke?

First, make absolutely certain that there is no smoke in the area. If you cannot be certain, call 9-1-1 to have a fire truck respond with the monitors and other appropriate equipment they carry to ensure that there is not a smoldering fire.

Detectors that chirp when there is no smoke probably are:

• Dirty - Take down your detector and vacuum out the exterior and interior.
• Weak - Batteries need to be changed once a year. It is publicly suggested that batteries are changed when daylight saving time begins each year.
• Old - Smoke alarms have a general life span of 10 years. If your alarm is operating improperly and is near that age, it must be replaced.

Questions about smoke alarms can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

For more information on Smoke Alarms, Click Here to visit our webpage. 

4. How do I know my smoke alarm is too old?

Smoke alarms must be replaced when they are 10 years old. This is for all types of smoke alarms; battery operated, hard-wired with battery back-up, and sealed battery alarms. Check for the manufacture date on the back of the alarm. Replace at 10 years. 
Questions about smoke alarms can be answered at 952-953-2600 during regular business hours. 

For more information on Smoke Alarms, Click Here to visit our webpage.

5. When must I replace my fire extinguisher?

Home fire extinguishers are usually not serviceable. 

Replace home fire extinguishers:

• When they are 10 years old
• If you have used the extinguisher (extinguishers can be used only ONE TIME) 
• When the arrow in the gauge is no longer in the “green” or indicates “empty”
• if there is damage showing to any part of the extinguisher; cylinder, gauge, hose, or handle

For more information on Fire Extinguishers, Click here to visit our webpage. 

6. The fire hydrant in my neighborhood is covered with snow - who do I call to come dig it out?

Please shovel the hydrant clear of snow! The City of Apple Valley does not have staff assigned or available to clear hydrants as there are more than 2500 hydrants throughout the City. We ask and encourage all neighbors and business owners to work together to maintain a 3-foot clearance around each hydrant year-round. In the case of multi-family communities (townhomes, condominiums, apartments, etc.), it is the management’s responsibility to ensure that hydrants remain clear and ready for use. 

For more information on Fire Hydrants, Click Here to visit our webpage.

7. My neighbor planted shrubs all around the hydrant in their yard. Is that ok?

No. Apple Valley city ordinance requires that fire hydrants have a 3-foot clearance around them at all times. You are encouraged to talk with your neighbor about this, or are welcome to contact the Fire Department or Code Enforcement for assistance. Questions about obstructed fire hydrants can be answered at 952-953-2600 during regular business hours.

For more information on Fire Hydrants, Click Here to visit our webpage.

8. Do you offer tours of fire stations?

Yes. The fire prevention division has developed a fire safety education program that is incorporated into station tours for guests of all ages. These tours can be scheduled by calling 952-953-2600 or by email. 

9. Can the Fire Department help make sure my infant car seat is installed correctly?

The Apple Valley Fire Department does not have the certified staff to assist with infant car seat installation. The Apple Valley Police Department does have staff that are certified to properly install infant car seats.