Fire Pit Rules: Columbus vs Westerville
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Columbus permits fire pits meeting commercial standards with screen top or chimney. Must maintain 15-foot setback from structures. Open-flame fires limited to clean seasoned firewood or natural gas. Smoke complaints can result in forced extinguishment.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Westerville allows recreational fire pits under Ohio Fire Code 307.4. Fires must be under 3 feet in diameter, 2 feet high, and at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material. Only clean firewood permitted.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Type Required | Commercial fire pit with screen | - |
| Setback | 15 feet from structures | 25 ft from structures |
| Fuel | Clean firewood or natural gas | Clean firewood only |
| Size Limit | Max 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high | - |
| Pit Size | - | Max 3 ft diameter |
| Portable Unit | - | 15 ft setback |
| Authority | - | Westerville Fire Division |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Columbus?
Columbus permits fire pits meeting commercial standards with screen top or chimney. Must maintain 15-foot setback from structures. Open-flame fires limited to clean seasoned firewood or natural gas. Smoke complaints can result in forced extinguishment.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Columbus?
Type Required: Commercial fire pit with screen. Setback: 15 feet from structures. Fuel: Clean firewood or natural gas. Size Limit: Max 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high.
Westerville FAQ
Can I roast marshmallows in my backyard fire pit in Westerville?
Yes. Recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter are permitted if located 25 feet from structures and attended at all times.
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
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