A Guide to Beach Bonfires on Atlantic Beach, FL

Few experiences rival the joy of hosting a beach bonfire on Atlantic Beach, FL. The crackling fire, the salty ocean breeze, and the company of loved ones create unforgettable memories. However, recent changes in permit costs and regulations may require a bit more planning to ensure your bonfire goes off without a hitch.

Why the Changes?

Atlantic Beach has always been a popular destination for beach bonfires, as they are not allowed on Neptune and Jax Beach, but growing concerns about debris left behind by participants have led to stricter rules. In an effort to protect the environment and maintain the beach’s beauty, the city has increased permit prices and introduced more rigorous regulations for hosting fires.

Bonfire Season and Nesting Restrictions

Beach bonfire season on Atlantic Beach is limited to the months between November 1 and February 28. During the rest of the year, Florida law prohibits any fires on beaches to protect sea turtle nesting sites. This restriction is crucial for safeguarding these endangered creatures, whose survival depends on undisturbed access to the sandy shores.

Atlantic Beach Bonfire Permit Process: What’s New?

Obtaining a permit for a beach bonfire is no longer as simple as applying online. You’ll now need to visit the Adele Grage Cultural Center in person to complete the process. The center, located at 716 Ocean Blvd., is open for permit applications from Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The cost of hosting a bonfire includes a $75 non-refundable fee (plus tax) and a $150 refundable deposit, which is returned if all conditions are met.

Rules to Keep in Mind

Atlantic Beach has also imposed stricter rules regarding bonfire gatherings:

• Maximum Group Size: Bonfires are limited to gatherings of 25 people or fewer.
• Clean-Up Requirements: All debris must be cleaned up, and the fire must be extinguished completely. Participants must vacate the beach by 10 p.m.
• Prohibited Materials: Burning items such as Christmas trees, wood pallets, or any other non-approved materials is not allowed.

Why These Changes Matter

The stricter rules and higher costs are designed to strike a balance between allowing beachgoers to enjoy bonfires and preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of Atlantic Beach. These measures help minimize the environmental impact while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Plan Ahead for a Successful Bonfire

If you’re planning a beach bonfire, be sure to review the complete list of regulations beforehand. This ensures your gathering adheres to local rules and avoids unnecessary fines or issues. For detailed guidelines, visit the city’s website at www.coab.us.

While these changes may require extra effort, they are a small price to pay for the privilege of enjoying a bonfire on Atlantic Beach. By following the rules and respecting the environment, you can make your gathering a night to remember.

Full List of Atlantic Beach Bonfire Rules

The permit applicant is responsible for enforcement of the rules and conditions which apply to all attendees of the event.

• Fires on the beach at night are allowed between November 1 and February 28.
• Fire must be attended to at all times by a responsible adult age 21 or older.
• Cooperation with Law Enforcement and Public Works is required.
• Fire location must not block beach access ramp for City vehicles.
• No personal vehicles are allowed on the beach.
• Setting-up against/in the beach dunes with vegetation is prohibited.
• Applicant needs to practice good safety around cooking and beach fires including monitoring wind for sparks. Do not light fires in windy conditions.
• Permit applicant is responsible for keeping participants off the dunes. No disturbance of existing beach topography and vegetation (sea oats) is permitted and will be subject to a fine of up to $5000 per Florida State Ordinance.
• Fires are to be of a campfire size of 2’x2’x1’ deep. Large bonfires on the beach are not allowed.
• Burning of Christmas trees or pallets on the beach are not permitted.
• Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are prohibited on the beach.
• No firecrackers or fireworks are allowed.
• All fires must be fully extinguished and not left to burn or smolder by 10 pm. Be advised, Parking at 18th St closes at 9 p.m.
• All campfire ashes/debris must be completely removed from the beach. All fire-pits and holes must be filled in and leveled with surrounding area.
• Collect all trash and place in barrels or place in bags next to barrels.
• Leave only footprints behind.

Beach Bonfire Tips

Digging the Pit

1. Mark the Area: Use a stick or your foot to outline a circle approximately 2 feet in diameter.
2. Dig Down: Use a shovel to dig a pit about 12–18 inches deep. This depth helps contain the fire and prevents sparks from escaping.
3. Build a Barrier: Create a small wall of sand around the pit for added safety and wind protection.

Setting Up the Fire

1. Create a Base: Place some crumpled paper or fire-starting material at the bottom of the pit.
2. Add Kindling: Stack small sticks in a teepee or crisscross pattern over the paper.
3. Arrange Firewood: Place larger logs around the kindling in a similar pattern, leaving enough space for air to circulate.
4. Light the Fire: Ignite the paper or fire starter, and carefully tend the fire as it grows.

What to Bring

1. Fire-Building Essentials
   • Firewood: Bring dry, untreated wood. Hardwood like oak burns longer and hotter, while softwood like pine lights quickly.
   • Kindling: Pack small sticks, twigs, or fire-starting materials to help ignite the fire.
   • Fire Starter: Matches, a lighter, or a fire starter kit will make lighting the fire easier.
2. Safety Gear
   • Bucket of Water: Essential for extinguishing the fire quickly.
   • Metal Shovel: For managing the fire and burying embers once the fire is out.
   • Fire Extinguisher: An extra precaution in case of emergencies.
3. Comfort Items
   • Seating: Foldable beach chairs, blankets, or towels for sitting.
   • Warm Clothes: Even on warm days, beaches can get chilly at night.
   • Bug Spray: To keep mosquitos and other pests at bay.
4. Food and Drinks
   • Snacks: Bring marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, or anything you’d like to roast.
   • Cooler: Pack drinks and snacks to keep everyone refreshed. (no glass!)
5. Entertainment
   • Music: A portable speaker for soft background music.
   • Games: Frisbees, beach balls, or cards for fun activities.
   • Telescope: Perfect for stargazing on a clear night.
   • Glow Toys: Glow sticks, necklaces and toys make it easier to see where the kids are playing when it gets dark

Whether you create a big blazing fire, or a small campfire, a beach bonfire on Atlantic Beach is a great way to spend the evening! Make the night a success by reading through all the rules and making sure you secure your permit before getting started.