Laws and Regulations For Outdoor Firepits

On a cool autumn evening, or perhaps during the summer backyard barbecue, a cozy sit in front of a fire pit makes for great conversation and comfort. Whether you have a fire shoppe built in your backyard or you use a portable bowl to burn wood, you have the ability to turn a simple yard into a place of relaxation and recreation. Because you will have an open flame close, however, you need to be aware of fire safety and any laws regarding owning a fire pit. Depending on where you live, the laws will vary.

Tips for Fire Pit Safety

The key to enjoying your evenings outdoors on your property is having your fire pit professionally installed. Planning is important in that the fire area must be situated on solid, level ground and in an area with no foot traffic. Your fire should not be placed anywhere near flammable objects or in a place where potential damage could happen. For example, the pit should not be installed near any gas lines or close to a pool, where people are likely to walk or run.

If you are setting up a permanent pit that is concrete or brick-based, arrange seating so that it is not too close to the flames. As you burn wood, there is the chance that sparks will fly from the fire and you do not want to get singed. Where possible, install your fire pit in an area with no tree cover - dry pine needles and leaves should be cleared away before you light a fire. If you have small children, keep them away from the fire as well.

Knowing the Law

Once you have decided to set up a fire shoppe on your property, before you do anything, you should consult with your area Fire Marshall. The Marshall will keep you informed of all fire laws in your city. More than likely, you will learn that having a small pit that maintains a low flame is okay to have in your yard, but many areas may enforce a law that says you can have a pit only if you intend to cook with it. This, of course, includes open pit barbecues. However, if you use your fire pit for roasting marshmallows and hot dogs you may be okay.

To be safe, consult with the Fire Marshall and a professional contractor who deals in backyard recreation facilities. Get all related information on size restrictions and other requirements, and soon you can enjoy those cool evenings by the fire with friends.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk outdoor firepits and Virginia Beach fireplaces.

About Limestone Fire Pits

After a long day at work, nothing feels better than going home and kicking back with a cold drink and maybe some nice music to help you relax. When the weather is cool and the sky free of clouds, the idea of sitting outside for some pleasant conversation just may be the ticket to topping off the day. If you aren't enamored by your present landscaping situation, though, you may wish to renovate with a cozy limestone fire pit for your back patio area.

Why upgrade your yard with a fire shoppe? If you're the outdoorsy type who loves spending more time in the yard than in the house, adding a fire pit seems like second nature. If you want to get some fresher air and take advantage of temperate evenings, the fire pit is one way to make your nights enjoyable.

• It's Affordable! Having a fire pit installed isn't as expensive as you think. Depending on whether you build one yourself or have a professional landscape company take charge, you'll find the money is well spent for the long run.
• It Looks Great! Limestone lends a rugged beauty to any outdoor environment. You can build an attractive round or square-shaped pit that looks gorgeous no matter how your patio or deck is styled.
• Kids Love Them! Up for some marshmallow roasting on a Saturday night? With a wood-burning fire shoppe at home, you don't have to wait until your next camping trip to have some fun.
• Fantastic for Parties! Host a home barbecue or have the next door neighbors over for a glass of wine and a chat. The low flames from the fire pit keep your parties alive and lit.
• Maintain a meditative environment! No matter the season, when you sit by your fire shoppe and let the warmth envelop you, you'll feel much calmer and can even have a better night. You'll feel more relaxed the next day and ready to take on the world.

If you are interested in making your back yard more functional, but don't have a lot of money to spend, budget for a nice patio area with a limestone fire pit. Set up a number of chairs, and you instantly create a cozy conversation area where you and family or friends can relax for hours. You'll enjoy your time outside chatting and watching the gentle flames that you may just forget to go back into the house.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk fire shoppes and Chesapeake fire shoppes.