Planning a fire pit or outdoor fireplace.

Gas or wood

• Gas fire pits and bowls start with a switch, make little smoke and can be turned off in seconds. They need a gas line and a permit.
• Wood fire pits give the classic crackle and smell, but make smoke and embers and can be restricted by fire agencies and air quality rules.
• Propane tabletop units need no permanent line, but still need clearance and safe use.

Plan these first

1. Location: clear of overhangs, trees, fences and structures, with the clearances the manufacturer and local fire agency require.
2. Gas: a line sized for the burner, a shutoff and a pressure test. This is licensed work.
3. Wind and smoke direction, and where neighbors' windows are.
4. Seating and walking space around the fire.
5. Local rules: fire agencies can restrict open burning, especially in hazardous conditions, and some areas regulate recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces.

Safety habits

• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Keep a way to put it out nearby.
• Keep kids and pets back.
• Don't use gasoline or accelerants.
• Turn it off in high wind or red flag conditions.

Fire country notes

In Montecito and in fire prone areas, fire districts set local rules. Our area pages list what we have found for each town.