Whether you already have a fire pit or are planning to add one, invest some effort in reviewing fire pit safety. This is especially important if you’re new to using a fire pit. It only takes a second for a cozy fire to burst into a blazing inferno. Ensure you get the most enjoyment from your fire pit by keeping family and friends safe.
Position chairs so folks can rise and move about seats without risking tumbling into the fire. Built-in seating prevents seats from being drawn too close to the flames; so do heavier chairs. Keep an eye on children whenever a fire pit is being used. Don’t allow them to get too close to the blaze.
Starting a Fire
To get a fire started, put a crumpled piece of paper or a store-bought fire starter in the pit, and cover one or both with small sticks — the smaller, the better. As the fire begins to burn, add larger and larger sticks until you're finally able to add a log or two. But whatever you do, don't try to start a fire with gasoline. It's way too dangerous.
City of Regina Fire Pit Regulations
The regulations governing the use of firepits and outdoor fireplaces are in place to ensure your safety, prevent fires and minimize the nuisance to neighbours. The Regina Fire Bylaw allows outdoor fires without a permit in enclosed burners, providing they meet the all regulations. Bonfires and other open-air fires are not allowed without a permit.
- Firepits cannot be used between the hours of 1 a.m. and noon.
- The fire must be contained in a non-combustible receptacle made of cement, brick, clay or sheet metal with a minimum 18 gauge thickness.
- The fire box must be covered with heavy gauge metal screen with openings not larger than 13 mm (1\2 inch) to contain sparks.
- The size of the fire box must not exceed 82 centimetres (32 inches) in any dimension.
- The firepit must be located a minimum of three metres (10 feet) from any combustible material, such as buildings, porches and decks.
- Firepits cannot be placed on combustible decks or apartment balconies.
- Firepits must be situated on a non-combustible surface.
- Firepits shall be clear of overhangs, such as tree branches, utility lines and structures.
- Firepits must be supervised by an adult at all times.
- Any person who uses a firepit shall have a means of extinguishing the fire readily accessible at all times.
- The only permitted fuels are charcoal, seasoned wood or manufactured fire logs.
- Materials that cannot be burned include, but are not limited to: waste including rubbish, slimes, manure, treated or painted lumber, livestock or animal carcasses, tailings, garbage, garden refuse or scrap; any hazardous material or dangerous good; or any material that generates black smoke or an offensive odour, including insulation from electrical wiring, rubber tires, asphalt shingles, hydrocarbons, plastics and lumber treated with wood preservative.
- Firepits must be extinguished if smoke causes an unreasonable interference with the use and enjoyment of another person’s property.
- Firepits shall not be used in windy conditions.
- In the event the Fire Chief issues a Fire Ban, the use of firepits is prohibited.
Source: https://www.regina.ca/home-property/safety-emergencies/fire/prevention-regulations/fire-pits/