Are Fire Pits Legal in Minnesota?

Navigating the Rules and Regulations Surrounding Fire Pits in Minnesota:

Understanding the rules and regulations surrounding fire pits in Minnesota can be a crucial aspect of enjoying these outdoor amenities responsibly. While fire pits are indeed legal in the state, they are subject to various restrictions and considerations outlined by state and local authorities. Understanding these guidelines is essential to ensure both safety and compliance with the law. From size limitations to permissible burning materials, each municipality within Minnesota may have its own set of regulations governing the use of fire pits.

Fire pits are legal in Minnesota, but that doesn’t mean they don’t come without restrictions or considerations. For instance, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency provides some information on recreational fires regarding size limitations. Any fire pit larger than 3 feet across will require a burn permit from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Additionally, they recommend considering propane fire pits rather than wood burning in an effort to reduce emissions. It should be noted that there is a general lack of information online, so we recommend contacting your local municipality for further information.

That being said, the Minneapolis Government website also provides some information for its locals. Recreational fires (including fire pits) must be less than 3 feet wide and 2 feet tall and must be constantly supervised by an adult. Moreover, you shouldn’t light your fire pit when wind speeds are more than 10mph, or allow your fire pit to produce smoke that is hazardous or a nuisance to neighbours and the local area. Following this line of thought, burning outside the hours of 9am and 10pm is prohibited. Lastly, it is always important to keep a method of fire extinguishment nearby such as a garden hose or fire extinguisher with a rating of 4-A or higher.

In St. Paul, fire pits do not require a permit, however they must be a minimum of 15 feet from any structure of combustible material. The hours you can ignite your fire pit are slightly different, as you can operate them between 4pm and 11pm. In addition, the flame of your fire pit shouldn’t be larger than 3 feet in width and height and if it is wood burning, only clean dry firewood is acceptable. Garden waste such as leaves and grass trimmings cannot be burned in your fire pit. Similarly, a method of extinguishment must be readily available, you cannot operate your fire pit in wind speeds of above 10mph and it must be attended at all times. 

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, while fire pits offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere for gatherings, it’s imperative to adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by Minnesota’s authorities. From obtaining burn permits for larger fire pits to ensuring compliance with local ordinances regarding size, location, and permissible burning materials, there are several factors to consider. Additionally, certifications from organizations like ANSI or CSA play a vital role in guaranteeing the safety and legality of gas fire pits. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of fire pits while respecting both the environment and their communities.