Are Fire Pits Legal in Colorado?

Navigating the Legal Landscape of Fire Pits in Colorado: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a Colorado resident considering adding a cozy fire pit to your backyard for those chilly mountain evenings? Before you gather round it’s crucial to understand the legal regulations surrounding recreational fires in the Centennial State. Let’s delve into what you need to know to enjoy your fire pit safely and legally.

Understanding the Regulations in Colorado and its Major Cities:

In Colorado, regulations regarding fire pits can vary depending on your local jurisdiction. However, there are some common guidelines and restrictions to keep in mind. Recreational fires in Colorado are fires that don’t exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height and are typically legal year round for residents, unless there are restrictions or a fire ban. Fire pits, outdoor fireplaces and cooking fires don’t generally require a permit in Colorado. However, if you are installing a gas fire pit, you will need a permit for installing a natural gas pipe, but not the fire pit itself. If you’d like a gas fire pit but wish to avoid the hassle of obtaining a permit, portable fire pits fuelled by propane tanks do not require a permit.

Additionally, if you wish to have a portable wood burning fire pit, they must be at least 10 feet from any combustible materials, whereas permanent wood burning fire pits must be at least 25 feet away. These restrictions do not apply to gas fire pits, however if you live in an apartment complex, condominium or hotel, it is important to confirm with your local fire department what distances they recommend. For instance, in Denver multifamily dwellings gas fire pits are not permitted on any balcony, overhanging portion or within 10 feet of any structure. However, in one or two-family dwellings gas fire pits are permitted on balconies. Furthermore, fire pits that use “solid fuels” (e.g. wood and charcoal) require a permit in Denver, whereas natural gas and other types of gas fire pits do not. So if you’re looking for an easy to install, hassle free solution, a gas fire pit is a great option.

In Colorado Springs, outdoor fireplaces and outdoor appliances within developed areas are under certain restrictions. For example, in single-family homes there must be a minimum clearance of 15’ between the fire pit and all neighbouring combustible structures, fences, and/or vegetation. However, there are no clearance requirements between the appliance and your own home or possessions. Moreover, fire pits are only to be fuelled by wood, pellets, charcoal, liquid propane (LPG), or natural gas and must constantly be attended by a capable adult with a means of complete extinguishment.

The city of Aurora is unique as they are constantly under a stage 1 burn ban. However, fire pits remain legal when used responsibly. Nonetheless, recreational fires (including fire pits) must be no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. Additionally, fire pits should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper placement and operation. 

Ensure Your Fire Pit is Safe and Certified:

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.

Adding a fire pit to your backyard can enhance your outdoor living space and create a cozy ambiance for gatherings with family and friends. However, it’s essential to navigate the legal landscape of fire pit regulations in Colorado to ensure safety and compliance with local ordinances. By understanding the regulations, obtaining any necessary permits, and practicing safe burning practices, you can enjoy your fire pit responsibly while minimizing the risk of fire hazards.