Are Fire Pits Legal in Dallas, Texas?

The Rules and Regulations Surrounding Fire Pits in Dallas, Texas

Dallas, TX is a lively city with a lively social scene that provides a hub for music and great food with captivating museums and a thriving art scene. So, what better a place to experience what Dallas has to offer than gathered around a fire? Fire pits are perfectly legal in Dallas, but they aren’t without certain rules and regulations. See what these are below! 

Legal Certification Standards for Fire Pits:

Quality is not just important to the visual appeal of a modern fire pit but it also determines how well it functions, and how safe it is. However, without a legal standard for this, how can we ensure that the product is of good quality? Well, certification from The American National Standards Institute, (or ANSI certification) is required for all fire pits within the US. This applies to fire features on public and private property, residentially and commercially It is also important to note if a fire pit has CSA certification, as it indicates a product has been tested and certified by a reputable organisation. At Solus, it is extremely important to us that our products not only look beautiful, but are also safe. Therefore, all of our fire pits are certified to ANSI, CSA, CE & UKCA standards, meeting NA, UK & EU regulations.

Wood Burning Fire Pits vs Gas a Propane Fire Pits:

Modern gas and propane fire pits are currently the most popular option in North America, largely due to their aesthetic appeal and safety in comparison to wood burning fire features. In recent years, burn bans have been implemented due to concerns over air quality and forest fires. However, recreational fires in Texas are still permitted if they are within an approved container (such as a fire pit). Wood burning open fires however require a permit. Additionally, wood burning fires are also subject to burn bans when winds are over 15 mph, an Ozone Action Day has been issued, or if Dallas County Commissioners in-act a burn ban. Consequently, this could render your fire pit unusable for some of the year. So, if you are concerned about flying embers, smoke gas and propane fire pits are the way to go.

Although wood burning fire pits typically produce more heat, are more portable and less expensive, they are not without their drawbacks. Flying embers, smoke that stings your eyes and leaves a strong scent on your clothes or in your hair are all common concerns. These are our clients’ primary complaints when they come to us looking for a clean-burning fire feature. Moreover, it is important to consider that recreational fires must not be a nuisance to neighbours under Dallas County regulations. However, Solus’ concrete fire pits produce a clean-burning flame, allowing heat output and flame height to be controlled with a simple skeleton key, making them a more personalised, considerate and safer appliance.

Nonetheless, installing a gas fire pit does require some preparation, as they have to be connected to a natural gas line that should run under your deck or patio. Additionally, permanently fixed fire pits must be 10 feet from a structure or combustible materials. Once installed however, fuel supply isn’t a worry and there are no unsightly pipes or hoses. Propane fire pits also require a connection to a propane tank which guidelines suggest should be stored outdoors, in a well ventilated area. This may seem like a hassle that you would rather avoid, but finding firewood storage, wet firewood and maintenance of a wood burning fire pit will require more time and cleaning long-term. 

To summarise, gas and propane fire pits are perfectly legal in Dallas, TX and are a modern and clean-burning alternative to your classic wood burning fire pit. Virtually smoke free, safer, and easy to maintain, we believe that they are the best alternative for those that want to make the most of their outdoor space and keep toasty this winter.