Laws Pertaining to Installing Outdoor Kitchens

Make sure you know your local state or county regulations and laws before installing outdoor cooking equipment.

An outdoor kitchen can represent a spectacular addition to any household, and especially in warmer climates, is an excellent respite from slaving away in a steaming kitchen at the height of summer. However, even if you’ve saved up enough money to invest in creating an outdoor kitchen on your property, it is important to consider local, state and any other regulatory concerns that may affect your new outdoor dream kitchen. Look into the following two major areas of concern so your plans for an outdoor kitchen don’t get ‘cooked’ before you can even enjoy your new room.

Restrictions on open flame or burning:
Nearly every municipality has bylaws or regulations limiting the use of open flame or open burning while outdoors. This edict might only seem to apply to open campfires and the like, but could also apply to fireplaces, wood-burning pizza or bread ovens, grill islands, smokers, patio heaters and other outdoor equipment that relies on flame for heating. Such outdoor appliances may be banned outright within the confines of urban center boundaries, or may only be allowed with a permit from the local fire marshal or other civil authority. Even if an open flame oven, for example, is allowed where you live, there will likely be restrictions on its placement, such as a requirement to be a certain distance from structures such as buildings, fences, or shrubbery; or perhaps limitations on the surrounding horizontal material – you may need to install patio stones or asphalt underneath and around the affected area, which could turn your outdoor kitchen into a major landscaping overhaul. It is also likely that you will be required to have certain safety equipment on hand, such as a fire extinguisher or a device to limit sparks.

Hire a professional to install gas or propane lines and connections
Natural gas and propane are safe, clean and popular alternatives to wood-burning outdoor appliances. However, if your property is not equipped with a natural gas or propane tank and line, you will have to have one installed. No matter your do-it-yourself tendencies, it is vital not to attempt this yourself! When handled properly, gas is very safe; however, in the wrong hands, it can be very dangerous. Additionally, many municipalities require proof of proper installation. Spend the extra money to have a professional install your gas lines and appliances.

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