Are Fire Pits Legal in New Brunswick?

Navigating the Rules and Regulations Surrounding Fire Pits in New Brunswick:

As the desire to gather around fire pits for cosy evenings outdoors grows, understanding the laws and regulations surrounding their use is essential. In New Brunswick, the government website states that recreational fires (i.e. fire pits) don’t require a permit and are completely legal. However, you must not burn any prohibited materials such as domestic waste, plastics, rubber etc. Additionally, it should be taken into consideration that cities and towns can have their own bylaws that must be checked before you install a fire pit.

Regulations in local areas:

Fire pits are legal in Moncton, however unlike the rest of the province, their government site states that wood burning ones are required to have a permit, which you can obtain by filling out an online form for a small fee of $10 (valid for five years). Wood burning fire pits can be operated between 4pm and 11pm however they cannot be placed on a wood deck or any other combustible platform. In addition, they must be equipped with spark arrestors and attended by an adult at all times. 

To ensure sparks or embers catching, fire pits shouldn’t be closer than 3 metres to anything combustible such as buildings or hedges. Moreover, only one fire pit is allowed per property, which can be used year round except for in the event of a burn ban. This is generally dictated by the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development in the Westmorland County region, so keep up to date with any information they supply.

Propane and natural gas fire pits are subject to different rules. As they are less likely to spark and cause fires to spread accidentally, they don’t require a permit and can be used during a burn ban. However, they should still be used with safety in mind as anyone who violates fire protections laws may be subject to fines. These can range from $240 to $5,200 so be careful!

Certifications and Safety:

Another important thing to consider is whether the fire pit is certified or not. In Canada, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), 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 American equivalent of CSA is the American National Standards Institute, or ANSI. 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 summary, while fire pits offer a wonderful way to enjoy outdoor gatherings in New Brunswick, it’s crucial to navigate the regulations carefully. Whether you’re in Moncton or elsewhere in the province, familiarise yourself with the specific requirements regarding permits, prohibited materials, operating hours, and safety measures. By staying informed and adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fire pit responsibly while minimising risks and ensuring a safe environment for everyone involved.