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New Montgomery County Permitting Services Podcast Episode Emphasizes Fire Pit Safety

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Fire Pit Safety,” features the DPS Fire Code Compliance (FCC) team addressing the importance of safety when using a fire pit.

DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS FCC Program Manager Michael Marchesani for a conversation filled with practical advice and tips to know before planning a social gathering around a backyard fire pit.

Fire pits are popular this time of year when the temperatures are cooler. Dry weather and a lack of rain should always be considered when deciding if the conditions are right for lighting an outdoor fire.

“We want to keep you safe,” said FCC Program Manager Marchesani. “It is important to make sure the fire pit is located at least 10 feet from any structure, such as your home or shed, and keep people back at least three feet from the fire. Also, make sure you have a water source handy in case you need to put out a fire. Remember, embers may fly during the popping and mulch is flammable, so it is important to keep the fire pit at least three feet away from any mulch piles or landscaping.”

Other fire pit safety tips discussed on the podcast include:

  • Get permission from the property owner and follow the rules and regulations of the homeowner association before lighting a fire pit.
  • Make sure at least one adult is present to assume the responsibility for the use of the fire pit and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using a structured fire pit.
  • Keep the fire pit at least 10 feet away from your home (and shed) and keep a clear area of at least three feet in diameter from around the fire pit. Keep it at least three feet away from mulch. Keep pets and children back from the fire and make sure there are no trip hazards in the path of the fire pit.
  • Do not use a fire pit on a balcony or deck.
  • Have a garden hose connected to a constant water source nearby to put out a fire if necessary.
  • Only use clean dried wood. Do not burn brush or trash.
  • Be mindful of the wind speed. Smoke should not cross the property line.
  • Dispose of all ashes safely. After 24 hours have passed, all hot ashes must be thoroughly dampened, cooled and stored in a metal can with a lid (to keep the air out of it) that is used solely for ash storage. Ashes that are two or three days old may appear to be safe, but can still retain enough heat to cause an unwanted fire. Never discard ashes in a paper bag, compost pile or cardboard box.

For additional safety tips, visit the DPS website:

If planning to hire a contractor to construct a fire pit, Program Manager Marchesini said it is important to make sure they are licensed. A permit is generally not needed for a manufactured fire pit device purchased for a residential backyard. Fire pits located in multi-family or commercial buildings do need a permit.

If you have questions, contact the DPS Fire Code Compliance Office at 240-777-0311.

The “Fire Pit Safety” episode of the Permitting Services Podcast is now available on the DPS website and various podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. It also is posted at https://permittingservicespodcast.buzzsprout.com/.

Subscribe to the podcast by tapping the “follow” sign on the podcast provider’s platform. In addition, it can be viewed on the County’s YouTube channel.

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Services is providing technical support for the Permitting Services podcast.

Previous DPS podcast episodes have covered accessory dwelling units, building safety, deck permits, the Design for Life program, home improvements, use and occupancy certificates, eSolar, fences, fire code compliance, GIS maps, the public right-of-way, septic systems, urban farming, vendor licenses and zoning.

Residents can send questions about a current episode, or ideas for future podcast episodes, to [email protected] .

Earlier this year, the Permitting Services Podcast was recognized with a 2024 achievement award from the National Association of Counties in the category of civic education and public information.

DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. An appointment is not necessary. Customers may also reach out to DPS staff by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. For more permitting information, visit the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps.

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Release ID: 24-534
Media Contact: Sonya Burke 240-855-981