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Committee defers fire-pit rules after debate over setback distances and liability
Summary
Members questioned a proposed 20-foot setback for recreational fire pits and whether chiefs should be allowed to grant variances; the committee deferred the item for further review and input from fire chiefs.
The ordinance committee discussed proposed regulations for recreational fire pits, including a recommended 20-foot setback from structures and a provision to allow fire chiefs to grant variances, but deferred the item for further review.
Staff noted the chiefs had reviewed the proposal and could sign off on tighter setbacks for certain installations if safety features such as dampeners were present. "I did put in a provision saying that the chiefs could essentially grant the variance on their own for an easier location or a closer location," Tony said. Members raised liability concerns if the town sets standards that later prove insufficient; staff gave a qualified negative on municipal liability provided manufacturers' specifications and chiefs' oversight are followed.
One member suggested combining the fire-pit and open-burning items because they overlap; another urged more practical distances for typical home installations. Following discussion, the committee deferred the fire-pit regulations to allow chiefs and staff to refine the setback distances, clarify variance procedures and confirm liability language.
No final standards were adopted; staff will return with revised language.
