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In recognition of the growing popularity of the use of fire pits, fire bowls, chimneas, and other similar outdoor wood-burning appliances, the Springfield Township Fire Marshal offers the following guidelines for use:

1. Appliances may only be used on residential property. No appliance may be used without the permission of the property owner;

2. At all times during the use of the appliance, the fire must be constantly attended by a responsible party present on site;

3. A permit from the Fire Marshal is not required

4. Use of the appliance must be in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines;

5. Use of each appliance must be kept at a reasonable and safe distance away from combustible construction. An area of at least 3 feet around the appliance must be kept clear of any material that can easily burn;

6. Appliances may not be used on balconies or decks;

7. Only dried, aged wood may be used in appliances. The burning of freshly cut wood, leaves, trash, construction material, or any other non-approved material is expressly prohibited;

8. Flammable or combustible liquids should not be used as an accelerant;

9. A fire extinguisher, garden hose, or other means of fire suppression must be kept nearby when an appliance is in use;

10. Appliances may not be used on Code Orange or Code Red air quality days;

11. Ashes must be disposed of safely: the user should wait at least 24 hours for ashes to cool, at which point they should be disposed of in a metal container used for ash storage and kept outside. Ashes that are insufficiently cool pose a serious fire hazard, and should never be discarded in a compost pile, paper bag, cardboard box or other combustible container;

12. The Fire Marshal, Fire Chief, or Police Officer has discretion at all times to determine safe use of appliances. If the Fire Marshal, Fire Chief or Police Officer determine the fire to be noxious, hazardous, or excessive to the immediate surrounding area by reason of smoke, noxious odor, sparks, embers, brands or hot ashes, that may pose a safety threat, they may order the fire be immediately extinguished.