29 Feb Are Fire Pits Allowed in Ohio?
Rules and Regulations on Fire Pits in Ohio:
Gathering around a fire as the sun sets is a tradition beloved by most people and is the best way to relax and socialize with friends and family. However, before you purchase or even DIY a brand new fire pit, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations governing fire pits and recreational fires in Ohio. Generally speaking, recreational fire pits do not require a permit in Ohio, however it is important to check your local guidelines. Let’s explore these rules set forth by various municipalities to ensure safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Cleveland Heights, Ohio:
In Cleveland Heights, fire pit rules and regulations are designed to promote safety and minimize risks. According to the city’s guidelines, fire pits must have a total area of 36 square feet or less and be located at least 25 feet away from any structure or combustible material. Additionally, the fire must be attended at all times until completely extinguished and a method of extinguishment should be readily available such as a garden hose or fire extinguisher.
Columbus, Ohio:
Open burning guidelines from the Columbus Division of Fire state that fire pits must be a minimum of 15 feet from any structures or combustible materials such as fences, sheds, etc. Moreover, wood burning fire pits cannot be used on “Air Quality Alert Days” as they tend to produce more harmful smoke than other types of fire pits such as those that are natural gas, liquid propane or ethanol based. Similarly to Cleveland, a method of extinguishment should also be immediately available for your safety and those around you!
Toledo Fire Rescue:
Toledo Fire Rescue emphasizes the dangers of illegal burning practices and provides resources to educate the public on safe fire management. Their guidelines stress the importance of following established protocols to prevent wildfires and protect the community. This guide emphasises that the fire pit or recreational fire should have a total fuel area no bigger than three feet in diameter and two feet in height. Additionally, only cleaned, seasoned firewood, natural gas or equivalent are acceptable types of fuel. Fire pits are again required to be 15ft from combustible materials and structures and the fire pit itself must be a container designed and manufactured for the purpose of outdoor burning and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Certifications and Safety:
Another important thing to consider is whether the fire pit is certified or not. In the US, the American National Standards Institute, or ANSI, is the certification standard for all consumer products from clothing to outdoor fire pits. Organisations such as this develop safety standards that assure the customer the product is safe to use, hence they are particularly important for appliances such as gas fire pits. The Canadian equivalent of ANSI is the Canadian Standards Association, or CSA. These certifications are often both used for the regulation of outdoor gas fire pits in North America, whichever you choose, you can be assured that the product is held to a high standard. Additionally, which certification is required can depend on the state or even the county you live in. Therefore, you should always confirm with your local jurisdiction the certifications they require for gas fire pits.
Moreover, if you run a commercial business, such as a hotel, bar or restaurant, or you rent out a private property, ensuring your fire pit is certified could be extremely important. In the event of an insurance claim resulting from the fire pit, insurance companies often won’t pay out if it is not certified. Also with gas fire pits, it is important to consider whether only the burner has been certified, or if the appliance has been certified in its entirety. If the fire pit isn’t certified as a whole, this could also cause issues with insurance claims.
In conclusion, while enjoying a cozy fire pit session can be a delightful experience, it’s crucial to abide by the laws and regulations governing open burning in Ohio. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your property, and your community while enjoying the warmth and camaraderie of outdoor fires. Remember to always check with your local authorities for the most up-to-date information and regulations regarding fire pits and recreational fires in Ohio.