There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm fire pit on a cool night. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or just enjoying the company of friends and family, a backyard fire pit is a great addition to any home. But is it legal to have one in your backyard? And more importantly, is it safe? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the laws surrounding backyard fire pits and provide some safety tips to make sure your time around the fire is enjoyable and safe.
Fire Pit Laws
Generally speaking, if you live in a residential area and your fire pit is at least 15 feet away from any structure or combustible material (this includes your house!), then yes! It’s perfectly legal to have one in your backyard. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In New York City for example, it is illegal for anyone to light a fire in any public park or on any sidewalk. If you live in an apartment complex, check with your landlord before setting up shop!
How far away should my fire pit be from my house?
The average size of a fire pit is approximately 36″ in diameter, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as well when deciding how far away it should be from your house. In order to avoid any potential damage or problems with smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning, keep at least 15 feet between your fire pit and the nearest structure (i.e., your home).
You should also make sure that there are no overhanging trees or branches above where you’ll be placing the fire pit, as these could catch on fire if they’re too close to an open flame!
How much does it cost to install a backyard fire pit?
The average cost for installing a fire pit in your backyard is approximately $2000. This price includes the installation of concrete pads, gas lines (if needed), gravel beds, and other materials necessary to create an effective barrier between you and the flames!
What type of wood should I use for my fire pit?
It’s important that you use only seasoned hardwood when building a fire in your backyard fire pit. Softwoods, such as pine or cedar, give off an unpleasant smell and can also create harmful byproducts when burned. Stick to oak, ash, maple, or other hardwoods for the best results!
Tell me the type of open fire that requires a permit?
In most areas, you’ll need to obtain a permit from your local municipality before building an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. These permits are generally free of charge and can be picked up at any city hall office in person or online through the website of your state’s Department Natural Resources (DNR).
Type of open fires require permits
There are a few types of open fires that generally require permits. These include:
-Outdoor fireplaces and pits
-Bonfires or campfires
-Fireworks displays
-Pyrotechnic special effects displays
Common Backyard Fire Pits Law and Regulations
-It is illegal to have an open fire in a public park or on any sidewalk
-In most areas, you will need to obtain a permit from your local municipality before building an outdoor fireplace or fire pit
-Only seasoned hardwood should be used in backyard fire pits
-Fire pits should be kept at least 15 feet away from any structure
-Cooking is not allowed in most fire pits
-The use of fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects displays are prohibited unless authorized by the chief of police or city manager’s office
Fire Safety Regulations for Backyard Fire Pits
Fire safety is a critical aspect of owning and using a backyard fire pit. It’s very important that you follow these regulations to ensure the best experience possible when enjoying your backyard space!
-Only seasoned hardwood should be used in backyard fire pits. Softwoods like pine or cedar give off an unpleasant smell and can also create harmful byproducts when burned. Stick to oak, ash, maple, or other hardwoods for the best results!
FAQs
Can I complain about my Neighbours fire pit?
It’s important to know that the City of Vancouver does not have by-laws in place which regulate backyard fire pits, however if your neighbour is disturbing you with smoke or noise from their fire pit then yes – they can be reported!
Can I use my fire pit in the rain?
If it is raining and your backyard fire pit has a cover, then yes you can! However if there isn’t anything covering it then we recommend that you don’t light up until after the storm passes.
What can I burn in my backyard fire pit?
You can use seasoned hardwood or charcoal briquettes! It is illegal to burn garbage, leaves, brush or any other type of material that may contribute to air pollution.
What is the code for fire pits?
Fire pits must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and in compliance with local codes. The code for fire pits is NFPA 211 or CSA B366
How far from house should fire pit be?
In order to avoid any potential damage or problems with smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning, keep at least 15 feet between your fire pit and the nearest structure (i.e., your home).
You should also make sure that there are no overhanging trees or branches above where you’ll be placing the fire pit.
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard during a temporary burn ban?
If a temporary burn ban is in effect in your area, it is illegal to have any type of open fire – including backyard fire pits! Check with your local municipality or DNR website to find out if a temporary burn ban is currently in place.
How do I extinguish my fire pit?
Make sure that the ashes from your fire pit are completely cool before attempting to dispose of them. The best way to do this is by pouring water over the ashes and stirring with a metal stick until they’re wet enough that all sparks have been extinguished, then spread them out on a non-flammable surface like concrete or gravel so that no heat remains underneath before disposing in an approved container for trash pickup service.
If you’re extinguishing your fire pit with a garden hose, it’s important not to use high pressure water as this could cause sparks or embers to be blown out of control and potentially start another fire somewhere else! It’s also recommended that anyone who has been around smoke from burning wood refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours afterwards.
Is it safe to use a gas-powered fire pit in my backyard?
Gas-powered fire pits are a great option if you’re looking for a convenient and easy way to enjoy a warm fire without all the fuss! Just make sure that you have an adequate ventilation system installed in your backyard –