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Are campfire restrictions in effect in your area? Are you trying to find a way to get around those restrictions to enjoy an outdoor fire on your patio or deck or in your backyard?
In this guide, we are going to help you shop for a fire ban safe fire bowl. First, we will tell you a bit more about fire restriction laws and burn bans that might prevent you from enjoying an open flame or bonfire.
Then, we will tell you what features are important to look for when you are choosing outdoor fireplaces to use in an area where such regulations are in effect (hint: your fire bowl needs to be CSA-certified for use during bans). Finally, we will share a few product recommendations with you. Let’s get started.
What to Know About Backyard Fire Bowl Laws
When you want to build an outdoor fire, it can feel like a major inconvenience to discover a burn ban is in effect. But these regulations are important for preventing wildfires. They help to protect the environment and public safety.
Exactly what a fire ban entails depends on where you are located. But generally speaking, if a ban is in effect, you cannot burn firewood, manufactured logs, or similar combustible materials.
But thankfully, during a ban, you still may be able to use stoves and other solutions. The government of British Columbia explains:
“Often, campfire prohibitions still allow the use of CSA-rated or ULC-rated cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or of portable campfire apparatus that use briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel, as long as the height of the flame is less than 15 cm tall. However, in extreme fire conditions these may also be prohibited.”
So, that gives you some general guidelines.
But because there are exceptions as well as variations in fire ban rules from one jurisdiction to another, you should always check with your local wildlife authority before you try and use a portable fire bowl or other appliance.
You can check online to see what bans are in effect in your area, or you can contact the non-emergency line of your local fire department or wildlife authority.
What Should You Look for in a Fire Ban Safe Fire Bowl?
Now that you know some basics about recreational fires and burn bans, let’s talk about what features are important in a fire bowl that is safe for burn bans.
1. CSA-certified
As the government of British Columbia mentioned, you should be using a CSA-rated appliance. But what exactly does that mean?
CSA stands for “Canadian Standards Association.” That used to be the formal name of the standards organization that gives this rating, but today it is just called the CSA Group.
The CSA tests outdoor burning appliances to Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
The ULC certification works as well—that stands for the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.
Like the CSA, the ULC tests to CEC and NEC standards.
As a result, neither of these certifications is “better” than the other. Both ensure an equally safe product.
How do you know if a product has one of these certifications? Look specifically for the CSA Canada USA markings on packaging, or check for the ULC markings.
If you don’t see these markings on the packaging, the product is not eligible to be used during fire bans and has not been certified for safety by the manufacturer. Using a non-certified fire pit is not only dangerous, but may result in fines, or worse.
2. Adjustable flame height
As the government stated, your flame should be less than 15 cm tall. So, look for a propane fire pit that allows you to adjust the height of your flame below that threshold.
3. Ease-of-use
For fire bans, you should look for a fire bowl that features excellent ease-of-use. That way, if you need to turn off your fire bowl in a hurry in an emergency, you can do so. Of course, keeping fire extinguishers on hand is also wise.
4. Quality manufacturing
For a fire bowl to be safe, it needs to be well-designed out of rugged materials like steel or aluminum. The seams, pockets, and corners should be welded properly, and powder coating should be applied evenly to the frame.
5. Fuel Type
To review, the government of British Columbia listed these as acceptable fuel sources: briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel.
So, propane or natural gas are ideal for a fire bowl you plan to use during fire bans.
5 Fire Bowls to Consider During a Fire Ban
1. Outland Living Standard Fire Pit
Standard Fire Pit
Our top recommendation for a fire ban safe fire bowl is the Outland Living Standard Fire Pit.
- Dimensions: L 19" x W 19" x H 11"
- Weight: 22 lbs
- 58,000 BTU/HR
- Manual ignition
- Use with standard 20-pound propane tank
- CSA-approved
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
This is a CSA-approved fire bowl that features the official CSA markings. With its durable steel construction and protective powder coating and enamel finish, it is sturdy enough to stand up to the elements, providing you with years of dependable use.
Additionally, at 22 pounds, this is a lightweight fire bowl that is easy to move. So, you can enjoy it at home, or bring it with you on vacation. You can adjust the height of the flame using a chrome valve knob. Although it uses propane, you can purchase a natural gas conversion kit if you want to switch fuel types.
Keep in Mind
Not everybody likes manual ignition. But if you prefer auto ignition, you can always go with the Outland Living Premium Fire Pit instead.
2. Outland Living Premium Fire Pit
Premium Fire Pit
The Outland Living Premium Fire Pit is the same basic design as the Standard Fire Pit. The principal difference is that it features auto ignition instead of manual ignition.
- Dimensions: L 19" x W 19" x H 11"
- Weight: 24.5 lbs
- Auto ignition
- 58,000 BTU/HR
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
As with the Standard fire bowl, Outland Living’s Premium Fire Pit is made out of sturdy steel with a protective powder coating and enamel finish, making it suitable for all climates. It is also CSA-approved and features a Chrome valve knob that you can turn to adjust the height of the flames to a suitable setting under fire ban regulations.
Keep in Mind
If you prefer manual ignition, you may want to go with the Standard model instead of this one.
Outland Living’s CSA-approved fire bowl line also includes other products to suit different needs. Additional models include the Deluxe, the Cypress, and the Mega.
3. Sol 72 Outdoor™ Addisyn 9'' H x 30'' W Stone Propane Outdoor Fire Pit
Another option to consider is the Addisyn 9'' H x 30'' W Stone Propane Outdoor Fire Pit by Sol 72 Outdoor™.
- Overall dimensions: 9'' H x 30'' W x 30'' D
- Fire Bowl dimensions: 9'' H x 20'' W
- Overall Product Weight: 63 lb.
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
As a propane fire bowl, this is another option that might be suitable. Its fiberglass-reinforced magnesia oxide cast stone construction is both rugged and beautiful. The stainless steel burner and the polyester cover are weather-resistant, and the flame is adjustable.
Keep in Mind
This product is a great deal heavier and far less portable than the Outland Living options we have discussed. It also is costlier, and we did not find any indications of CSA approval.
How do I use my fire bowl safely during a burn ban?
When using a fire bowl outdoors during a fire ban, there are some extra precautions to observe. Always operate the device according to the manufacturer’s guidelines without any modifications.
This means never adding combustible yard debris to the bowl, altering any components, or burning near combustible surfaces (specific distances available from manufacturer). It also means taking the initiative to supervise the fire at all times and having a plan to take action if the fire gets out of control.
You should also follow manufacturer and local guidelines on the types of surfaces on which to place the fire bowl (it must be non-combustible), and maintain a clean area around the unit with no flammable debris (including leaves, branches, mulch, paper/cardboard, etc.).
It is also important to keep the CSA identification tags on or near the unit while in operation as forest rangers or local authorities may request to see the CSA/UL Canada-USA approved markings during use.
For more details and additional recommendations, please see Fire Pit on Deck - Yes or No?! Do’s, Don’ts, and Considerations. Also check out Fire Pit Distance from House, Safety Rules & Guidelines, and take a look at Can I Have a Fire Pit in my Backyard? Laws, Restrictions by State.
Enjoy These Campfire Alternatives
When fire bans are in effect, regulations prevent open fires such as traditional campfires where you burn wood.
But on patios, in backyards, and in campgrounds, you may still be able to use a CSA-certified propane fire bowl like those manufactured by Outland Living. So, check the latest burn restrictions in your area, and enjoy these safe and legal campfire alternatives!