Are Fire Pits Legal in Hawaii?

Deciphering Fire Pit Laws in Hawaii: What You Need to Know

Fire pits are cherished amenities in outdoor spaces, offering warmth and ambiance for gatherings under the Hawaiian sky. However, understanding the laws and regulations governing their use is essential to ensure safety and compliance. Hawaii, with its unique environmental considerations, imposes specific guidelines to maintain fire safety standards and protect its natural beauty.

Fire Pit Regulations in Hawaii:

Navigating fire pit laws in Hawaii involves adherence to various regulations outlined by local authorities. According to Honolulu’s Fire Department, open burning fires, including fire pits, must comply with specific guidelines and may be prohibited if deemed hazardous by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Written permission from the property owner is required for installing fire pits, highlighting the importance of respecting property rights and safety protocols.

Safety Standards for Open Flame Devices:

In addition to regulatory requirements, safety standards dictate the proper installation and maintenance of fire pits in Hawaii. Open flame devices using gas or liquid fuel must maintain a minimum clearance of three feet from combustible materials and a vertical height of seven feet from grade to flame. However, the AHJ retains the authority to modify these clearances based on site conditions, ensuring flexibility while prioritizing safety.

Local Approval for Hazardous Fire Areas:

Section 10.10.3.1 of the regulations stipulates that outdoor fires should not be ignited or maintained in hazardous fire areas without approval from the AHJ. Control of such fires varies across different counties, necessitating contact with local authorities to ensure compliance with specific regulations and codes. This underscores the importance of local engagement and awareness in maintaining fire safety standards.

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, understanding the laws and regulations surrounding fire pit usage in Hawaii is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance while enjoying the beauty of outdoor gatherings under the Hawaiian sky. With specific guidelines set by local authorities, including requirements for written permission and adherence to safety standards, individuals can navigate fire pit regulations responsibly. Additionally, seeking local approval and considering certifications for fire pits further contribute to promoting safety and environmental stewardship. By staying informed and adhering to regulatory requirements, individuals can continue to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of fire pits while preserving Hawaii’s natural beauty and community well-being.