Table of contents
Traveling to campgrounds, but just found out that burn bans are in effect? When burn bans are active, you cannot enjoy a traditional campfire. But that does not mean all outdoor fires are forbidden. In fact, there are fire ban safe fire pits on the market that are easily portable and ideal for situations like these.
In this guide, we will tell you what you need to look for when choosing fire bowls to get around fire restrictions legally. We will then introduce you to some CSA-approved fire pits with adjustable flame settings that may be just what you are looking for.
But first, let’s learn a bit more about burn bans.
What are Burn Bans?
Burn bans are regulations that prohibit outdoor burning with combustible materials like firewood. Local agencies may put air quality burn bans into effect to keep smoke out of the air, or they might prohibit open flames in an attempt to prevent forest fires.
The exact rules for any given burn ban depend on the agency issuing the ban as well as the specifics of that particular ban.
The government of British Columbia states:
“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 an indication of the requirements for allowable outdoor fireplaces.
Just remember that if you are located in a different region, regulations in your area may also differ.
Plus, you should always double check with your local authority before using any sort of outdoor fire appliance to make sure that the rules have not changed.
Do Burn Bans Include Fire Pits?
The next thing you are probably wondering is, “Do burn bans include fire pits?” The answer is “that depends.”
If you can find a fire pit that fits within the guidelines for the fire ban that is in effect in your area, then yes, you are allowed to use it. But if the product falls outside those guidelines, no, you cannot use it.
How do you check your area’s fire ban updates? Either look online, or call the non-emergency line of your local fire department or wildlife authority.
Is a Fire Pit Considered Open Burning?
Depending on your location, open burning could be prohibited under a fire ban, or you might need a permit. So, is a fire pit considered open burning? In some municipalities, yes. In others, no. You will need to check with your local authority.
Using Fire Pits Safely
Regardless of whether a fire ban is in effect, it is important to follow safe practices during use. While you may be purchasing a fire pit for use on vacation, you might also be wondering whether you can use a fire pit safely at home.
Start out by reading Fire Pit Distance from House, Safety Rules & Guidelines. Then, have a look at Fire Pit on Deck – Yes or No?! Do’s, Don’ts, and Considerations.
After that, you can check out Can I Have a Fire Pit in my Backyard? Laws, Restrictions by State.
And for general safety information, you can take a look at our answers to common questions about fire pit table safety.
What to Look for in a Fire Ban Safe Fire Pit
Now that you know more about burn bans, we can talk about the most important features to look for when you are choosing a fire pit to use during a band.
1. CSA-approved
The first and most important thing is to check for CSA Canada USA markings on packaging for the fire pit you are considering purchasing.
The CSA Group used to be called the “Canadian Standards Association.” It tests fire pits and other appliances to Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
Because CSA-approved fire pits meet these high standards, local regulators may make an exception for them during fire bans, provided they meet all other criteria.
You can also look for a ULC certification from the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada. This is an equivalent certification, since ULC tests to the same standards as CSA.
If you use a fire pit that is not CSA- or ULC-approved, you risk incurring fines. You also will not be using as safe an appliance. Injuries and wildfires are two possible results.
2. A flame height you can adjust
You must use a fire pit that produces flames less than 15 cm tall if you do not want to be in violation of fire bans.
So, either purchase a product that produces flames under that height, or one that allows you to adjust the flame height below that maximum.
3. Permitted fuel type
Certain types of fuel are acceptable under most fire bans. Examples include propane, natural gas, or briquettes. Make sure that you are shopping for a fire pit that takes one or more of these fuel types.
4. Ease-of-use
With a CSA-approved fire pit, you should not encounter any problems during use. But if you should need to quickly turn off your fire pit, it helps if the controls are intuitive and easy to use. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand as well, just in case.
5. Craftsmanship and materials
Look for high quality craftsmanship and materials when choosing a fire pit to use during fire bans. The more durable and dependable your fire pit is, the safer it will be to use.
Top Fire Ban Safe Fire Pits to Consider
1. Outland Living Standard Fire Pit
Standard Fire Pit
The top fire pit we recommend during a fire ban is the Outland Living Standard Fire Pit.
- Dimensions: L 19" x W 19" x H 11"
- Weight: 22 lbs
- 58,000 BTU/HR
- Use with standard 20-pound propane tank
- Manual ignition
- CSA-approved
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
The Outland Living Standard Fire Pit is a CSA-approved outdoor appliance featuring sturdy steel construction. The powder coating and enamel finish give it a beautiful appearance while also maintaining its longevity against the elements.
Weighing just 22 pounds, it is easy to bring this fire pit with you to your campground. Also, you can turn a chrome valve knob to set the flames to the height you prefer. While this is a propane fire pit, it can use natural gas if you get a conversion kit.
Keep in Mind
While this fire pit is portable, convenient, and safe, you might be looking for something a little larger for your campsite. If so, consider the Outland Living Mega model below.
2. Outland Living Mega Fire Pit
Mega Fire Pit
Our next recommendation is the Outland Living Mega Fire Pit. This pit has slightly larger dimensions than the Outland Living Standard Fire Pit.
- Dimensions: L 24" x W 24" x H 13"
- Weight: 34 lbs
- 58,000 BTU/HR
- Use with standard 20-pound propane tank
- Manual ignition
- CSA-approved
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
We would recommend this pit if you like everything about the Standard, but want a slightly larger fire for a bigger group to enjoy. Once again, this propane fire pit is CSA-approved, and made of the same sturdy materials as the Standard. You can adjust the flame height so that it is legal to use during a fire ban.
Despite the slightly larger size of the Mega, it is still pretty lightweight, and remains a portable option that is ideal for travel.
Keep in Mind
This fire pit costs more than the Outland Living Standard model, but it is worth it for heavy-duty fire pit for a larger group.
3. Sol 72 Outdoor™ Terrill 9'' H x 28'' W Fiber Reinforced Concrete Propane Outdoor Fire Pit
Another possible fire pit to think about is the Sol 72 Outdoor™ Terrill 9'' H x 28'' W Fiber Reinforced Concrete Propane Outdoor Fire Pit.
- Overall dimensions: 9'' H x 28'' W x 28'' D
- Fire Bowl dimensions: 2'' H x 12'' W x 12'' D
- Overall Product Weight: 40 lb.
Why Consider This Fire Pit?
This fire pit features a rugged build of fiber-reinforced concrete. Its appearance is that of stone, but it is relatively lightweight and portable. It puts out 40,000 BTUs, and is powered by propane.
Keep in Mind
This product is more expensive than the Outland Living fire pits we shared. We also do not see any evidence that it is CSA-approved.
Enjoy the Warmth and Ambiance of Your Fire Ban Safe Fire Pit
A fire ban may stop you from starting a bonfire or a traditional campfire, but now you know it does not have to stop you from enjoying the warmth of flames during your vacation.
With a high-quality portable fire pit that is CSA-certified and features an adjustable flame height, you may be able to relax next to a fire at your next campground. To get your fire ban safe fire pit now, click on any of the links in this article!
