Minnesota fall festivals and Rochester fire pit regulations

Minnesota is hosting various community festivals throughout the fall season. Scheduled events in September include Red Rooster Days in Dassel, the Defeat of Jesse James Days in Northfield, and the Watermelon Festival in Kellogg. Other regional celebrations include the Minnesota Oktoberfest in Delano and Apple Days in Excelsior.

In Rochester, Minnesota, residents using backyard fire pits must adhere to specific safety ordinances. While recreational fires are legal, the City of Rochester Fire Department recommends that individuals call Fire Dispatch before starting a fire to reduce unnecessary emergency calls. Additionally, fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and must be kept at least 25 feet away from occupiable structures, or 15 feet if using an approved barbecue pit or grill.