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

There’s something about beachside bonfires under the stars that makes 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 waves lapping gently in the distance.

As you plan a bonfire party on the beach, there are a few best practices to keep in mind for beach bonfire safety, ensuring you protect yourself and the environment.

Beach Bonfire Set-Up at Sunset in South Walton

Safe Beach Bonfire Tips

If you’re visiting South Walton, there are a few things to know when building a beach bonfire. Whether you decide to build your own blaze or leave it to the pros, make sure to acquire the proper permit and always extinguish your bonfire. For more information, explore these safe beach bonfire tips for South Walton visitors!

Q: Do I need a permit?

A. 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 standard cost of a beach bonfire permit is as follows:

Wood Bonfires: $150
Propane Bonfires: $100
Credit Card Processing Fee: $7

Please note that 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 your beach bonfire setup and clean-up:

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 bonfire permit 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. If wind or unsuitable weather conditions arise before or during the bonfire, your permit for that day may be revoked.

Q: What requirements/rules must I follow?

A: To obtain a beach bonfire permit, you must be at least 18 years old. The person obtaining 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.

Fires must be at least 50 feet away from vehicles, public roads, structures, and vegetation. During turtle season (May 1 – October 31), turtle season bonfire rules apply, and fires must be at least 200 feet from any turtle nest.

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. Make sure to leave the beach in the same condition it was when you arrived. This not only keeps our sugar-white sand pristine, it also helps prevent the spread of dune fires and stops other visitors from stepping on red-hot buried coals. 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.