Are Fire Pits Legal in Arizona?

A Comprehensive Guide on the Regulations Surrounding Outdoor Fire Pits in Arizona:

Welcome to our guide on the laws surrounding fire pits in Arizona! It’s essential to understand the legal framework governing recreational fires in the Grand Canyon State. From permitted locations to fire pit design and safe burning practices, navigating Arizona’s regulations ensures not only a cozy ambiance but also compliance with local ordinances and fire safety standards. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of enjoying your fire pit responsibly and legally in Arizona and its various cities.

Permits, Burn Bans and More:

Certain forms of open outdoor fires are exempt from permits, such as those for providing warmth or for recreational purposes, i.e., fire pits!  In Phoenix, fire pits are only prohibited when atmospheric or local conditions make such fires hazardous. Otherwise, fire pits are entirely legal in Phoenix, However, they must be under constant supervision and a method of extinguishment must be immediately available such as a fire extinguisher or garden hose. 

In Tuscon, fire pits are classified as open burning that is contained, therefore they must be a minimum of 15 feet from structures or combustible materials. Whereas recreational fires that are not contained in an outdoor fireplace, fire pit or barbecue must be 25 feet away and have a total fuel area of less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. 

Currently, the city of Mesa allows fire pits, however they do ban wood burning fire pits on “No Burn Days” in an effort to improve the city’s air quality, these generally only last for 24-hours. However, this does not appear to apply to “smoke-less” gas fire pits such as those that use natural gas, propane or bio-ethanol. Although it is not clearly stated on the City of Mesa website, gas fire pits tend to produce far less contaminants are generally not subject to burn bans.

Safety and Certification for Gas Fire Pits:

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, understanding the laws surrounding fire pits in Arizona is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. While the regulations may vary slightly between cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa, the overarching goal remains the same: to balance the benefits of recreational fires with the need to protect public safety and the environment. By adhering to permitted locations, maintaining proper supervision, and employing safe burning practices, Arizonans can gather around their fire pits with peace of mind, knowing they’re not only embracing a cherished tradition but also upholding their civic responsibility. So, whether you’re in the bustling heart of Phoenix or the tranquil outskirts of Tucson, let’s continue to savor those cozy moments around the fire pit, responsibly and in harmony with our surroundings.