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Question

What is the building code for outdoor barbeques and fireplaces, Sonoma California

Submitted: 753 days and 3 hours ago.
Category: Home Improvement
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Posted by Brian 753 days and 2 hours ago.

Answer

Hello XXXXXXX,

Welcome to Just Answer.

The building codes do not address open fires that are outdoors, which would include the fireplace and barbecue. Your local zoning and fire codes would address this, however. To find your answer, you will need to contact your local zoning department and/ or fire department, which will tell you what is allowed and what is not. Open fire permission, can change drastically from one town to the next. One will allow free burning without any pit, while another won't allow any open fires at all....it's all up to your local officials

 

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753 days ago.

Reply

Reply to Brian S.'s Post: Brian,
Thanks for taking a stab at this. Sounds like I need to go the local planning dept. I am looking to install a concrete/stucco fireplace w/hearth & chimney. The fireplace would be centered between a built-in BBQ on one side, and conc.counter with wood storage underneath,on the other side. How far does this BBq/Fireplace unit need to be from an existing garage structure? Is nine feet adequate? I am pretty clear that the max. height for a fireplace chimney is 15 feet....I just need to know setback from an exist. building.
Thanks again,
XXXXXXX

Accepted Answer

XXXXXXX,

What you are describing now, is a more controlled system. Prior, I thought you were planning on an open pit type of fire that could also be a barbecue.

I can envision now, what you are thinking of, and I think it is fine. The building code still doesn't address this type of barbecue/ fireplace setup and I think the reason is, is because what you are planning is relatively safe. I have seen these built quite a bit, and we have even designed a few in our firm. The setup is pretty much a landscape feature and is not close to, or not made out of any combustibles, which makes it safe. The fireplace and barbecue are a controlled fire, being surrounded by at least 3 sides, which is the best setup that you can get, as far as fire safety.

I think 9 feet from the garage is plenty, but do check with the local authorities for your area. My office has built them closer to combustibles, but every town is different. Make sure that other combustibles are far enough away, as well, such as wood deck, fence, etc. I also know that the top of a chimney is required to be at least 10 feet, measured horizontally, to any combustible material, so keep that in mind. If the garage wall is 9 feet away, but the roof slopes away from the fireplace, you should be good. If not, try to move your project over 1 foot, to get the 10 foot requirement.

 

If you should need further help on this question, please reply to this post.

It is my objective to make sure that your question is answered to your complete satisfaction.

Please click the green "ACCEPT" icon, if you feel that I have met this requirement.

PLEASE LEAVE FEEDBACK; it only takes a few seconds and it is important to me.

If you prefer, BONUSES are truly appreciated!

Best of Luck,

Brian

Remember that your "ACCEPT" is required for us to receive compensation.

This is a FEE based website & your payment allows us to be here for you.

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Expert: Brian
Pos. Feedback: 99.2 %
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Answered: 10/31/2007

Architect

Licensed Architect- 12 years, L.E.E.D. AP, Former Remodeling Contractor- 10 years

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