Most communities have outlawed the use of fire pits, then turn a blind eye when their residents use them unless someone complains. West Easton has taken a different approach – allowing responsible adults the ability to enjoy a gathering around a small fire, but enforcing safety requirements.
West Easton Council voted to allow manufactured fire pits for recreational enjoyment, though it did set restrictions on their size and safe use requirements within Ordinance 2023-06.
There is yearly $5 permit fee for a fire pit in order to maintain a record of those who will be burning and to ensure they have read and understand the ordinance.
The use of wood and gas fire pits are both allowed, though their size is limited. The total burn box area can be no larger than 24″w x 18″h. Wood fire pits require a screen, and there are minimum distances required from neighboring structures, as well as other criteria.
So, now that you’ve read the ordinance and still want a fire pit, which ones conform to our ordinance, are reasonably priced, and highly rated?
You’re likely not going to find a deal at our local home improvement stores. They don’t carry more than a couple of styles of each type, and their sizes may not be within the requirements of our ordinance. They are often more expensive than similar models found online.
Here are a couple of each you may want to consider ordering online:
Let’s start with gas fire pits.
I prefer gas for evenings sitting around a flame, having a beer, and relaxing. No need to constantly move chairs to avoid smoke. No worries about wind and sparks. Gas fire pits are often allowed during burn bans because the produce no sparks, or popping embers. The only drawback is the cost of propane, and the need for a second tank if you don’t want to use the one from your BBQ grill.
Outland Living Firebowl 883 This model is the one I bought for myself. The outside diameter is 24″, though the burn box area is about 20″. It comes with a 10′ hose and regulator, 6.6 lbs of lava rock, a cover, and safe operating manual. Heavy steel construction. No assembly required: Easily sets up in minutes with no tools required. Can be used at home, or easily taken on camping trips.
Ciays Propane Fire Pit While the diameter is shown to be 28″, this is the diameter of the entire table top. The actual burn box area is closer to 18″, making it legal for use. This unit is more for those who only need a fire pit for patio use. Steel construction. Includes lava rocks for the center of the pit. The fire pit table has an external fire level control to easily maintain the atmosphere and heat level, furthermore, a has a pit lid for when the party is over.
Wood Fire Pits
Outdoor Diamond The actual fire pit bowl dimensions: 22’’Dx7.8’’H, though the overall dimensions are are larger. Fire bowl provides a large wood capacity. Made of high quality powder-coated and heavy-duty steel material, which will be rust-proof and high temperature-proof. Comes with a 19.7’’ fire poker. Choose a cutout pattern, such as Diamond, Animal, Forest, Flame and Halloween Pumpkin when ordering.
Fire Sense 24″ diameter, 8.5″ deep steel fire bowl. Copper look finish on bowl. One piece dome spark screen. High temperature paint. Includes fuel grate for enhanced air flow. This fire pit is the perfect addition to any outdoor environment. Mesh Spark Screen & Screen Lift Tool Included.
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.