Are Fire Pits Legal in Michigan?

Navigating the Rules and Regulations Surrounding Fire Pits in Michigan:  

Envisioning a serene evening gathered around a fire pit in the Great Lakes State is a quintessential Michigan experience. Yet, before igniting those flames, it’s crucial to comprehend the legal landscape governing fire pit usage. Michigan, renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor allure, permits the burning of logs, brush, charcoal, and similar materials for recreational and culinary purposes, unless local ordinances dictate otherwise. However, even in this land of outdoor enthusiasts, there are regulations to heed. Recreational fires may face prohibition if deemed unsafe by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) during periods of hazardous fire conditions. Join us as we navigate the statutes, guidelines, and best practices surrounding fire pit usage in Michigan, ensuring a harmonious blend of enjoyment and compliance with the law.

In Detroit, Michigan, strict regulations govern the use of fire pits to ensure both safety and compliance with local ordinances. Fire pits must be securely enclosed, constructed of non-flammable materials, and are limited to a diameter of no more than three feet. Moreover, they must be positioned at least 10 feet away from any flammable objects or property lines to mitigate potential risks. Violations of these regulations can result in civil fines of up to $500, emphasizing the seriousness of unlawful burning practices. Furthermore, all fire pits must be attended by an adult at all times and a method of extinguishment must be readily available. Additionally, the city guidelines warn against fires that emit excessive smoke or offensive odors, so please be considerate of your neighbours! Understanding and adhering to these regulations ensures not only a safe but also a harmonious fire pit experience within the vibrant city of Detroit.

The City of Grand Rapids website also provides some helpful information of the rules and regulations surrounding fire pits. For instance, fire pits are strictly limited to placement in back or side yards, ensuring both safety and compliance with local ordinances. Furthermore, they must be positioned at least 20 feet away from combustible materials, structures, lot lines, roadways, alleyways, and fences. Additionally, a minimum distance of 15 feet from overhead lines is mandated to prevent potential hazards. It is also important to note that obtaining a recreational fire permit from the city is imperative for wood-burning fire pits, however gas fire pits are exempt from this requirement. Wood-burning fire pits, with a valid permit, are only permitted for use between 7 am and 10 pm and must be renewed annually, so if you’d like to have any late night parties around the fire, be sure to look for a gas fire pit. Moreover, burning activities are strictly prohibited on high-risk days, ozone action days, or any day designated unsafe by the Fire Chief, so keep the environment in mind before gathering ‘round the fire pit!

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 wrapping up our exploration of fire pit regulations in Michigan, it’s evident that while enjoying the crackling flames under the starry sky is a cherished tradition, it comes with responsibilities. Whether you’re in the bustling cityscape of Detroit or the vibrant community of Grand Rapids, understanding and adhering to local ordinances ensures a safe and cozy fire pit experience. Moreover, considering safety certifications such as ANSI or CSA adds an extra layer of assurance, particularly for commercial establishments. By embracing these regulations and safety standards, we not only safeguard our enjoyment but also preserve the beauty of our surroundings for generations to come. So, as you gather around your fire pit, let’s remember to not only cherish the warmth but also uphold the laws that safeguard our communities and environment.