Permit-Ready Site Plan Checklist for Outdoor Fire Features — Free Download

FireFeatureRules — Permit-Ready Site Plan Checklist

firefeaturerules.pages.dev | Informational only — verify with your local building department

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How to use this checklist: Check off each item as you prepare your permit application. Items marked with ★ are the most common sources of corrections or rejections. Print using your browser's print function (Ctrl+P / ⌘+P) for a clean printable version.

📋 Section 1: Permit Application Form

★ Completed permit application formObtain from your building department's website or counter. Fill out completely — blank fields delay review.

Project description written clearlye.g., "Construct masonry outdoor wood-burning fireplace with chimney, approx. 6 ft wide × 4 ft deep × 10 ft tall"

★ Project valuation declaredHonest estimate of total project cost (materials + labor). Used to calculate permit fee. Undervaluing can result in additional fees or rejection.

Property address and APN (Assessor's Parcel Number)APN available from your county assessor's website.

Owner/applicant contact information completeName, address, phone, email.

Contractor information (if applicable)If using a licensed contractor, include contractor license number and contact information.

📐 Section 2: Site Plan

★ Property boundary lines drawn with dimensionsShow all four property lines with labeled dimensions in feet.

★ Existing structures shown (house, garage, sheds)Show all existing structures on the lot with their footprints.

★ Proposed feature location clearly markedMark the exact proposed location of the fire feature with a clearly labeled symbol or hatching.

★ Setback distances labeled from feature to all structuresDimension the distance from the proposed feature to: (1) nearest wall of house, (2) any detached structure, (3) all fences, (4) all property lines.

★ Setback distances labeled from feature to combustible fencesWood, vinyl, and composite fences are combustible. Label distance from feature to each fence separately.

Scale notation on site plane.g., "1 inch = 10 feet" or "1 inch = 20 feet". Plan must be to scale — satellite imagery printed as base is acceptable if scale is noted.

North arrowShows orientation of the site plan.

Gas line route shown (if applicable)If running a gas line, show the proposed route from the existing gas meter to the fire feature on the site plan.

Utility clearances notedNote distance from proposed feature to gas meter, electrical panel, HVAC equipment, and overhead utility lines if within 25 feet.

🧱 Section 3: Construction Drawings / Specifications

★ Feature dimensions labeled (width, depth, height)Overall dimensions of the proposed structure. For fireplaces: firebox opening width and height, firebox depth.

★ Chimney height shown and labeledLabel chimney height from grade. Show compliance with: 2 feet above any combustible material within 10 horizontal feet; 3 feet above roof penetration if applicable.

★ Chimney cap / spark arrestor specifiedSpecify "UL-listed spark arrestor" on drawings. Many jurisdictions require this explicitly called out on submitted plans.

Footing depth and dimensionsShow footing depth (must meet or exceed frost line depth for your region) and footing dimensions relative to structure footprint.

Rebar specification (if concrete footing)Show rebar size (#4, #5, etc.) and spacing in footing.

Materials specified for firebox liningFirebox interior must typically be firebrick with refractory mortar (not standard brick). Specify this on the drawings.

For prefab units: manufacturer's installation instructions and specsInclude the manufacturer's product specifications showing BTU rating, clearance requirements, and installation instructions.

✅ Section 4: Pre-Submission Verification

★ Confirmed with local building department that permit is requiredCalled the permit counter and described the project. They confirmed a building permit is needed.

★ Confirmed which IFC edition is adopted locallyDetermines whether the 15-foot portable fireplace setback (IFC 307.4.3) applies, and what other specific code provisions govern your project.

★ HOA approval obtained (if applicable)Written approval from HOA Architectural Control Committee. Include copy with permit application if your building department requires it.

Air quality district identifiedKnow which air district covers your property. Know how to check for curtailment days before operating a wood-burning feature.

Separate plumbing permit application prepared (if gas line)Gas line work requires a separate plumbing/mechanical permit application. Licensed contractor identified and their license number documented.

Permit fee estimated and funds availableCalled the building department or checked their online fee calculator to estimate permit cost. Fees typically due at submission or issuance.

📏 Section 5: Measurements Worksheet

Fill in these measurements before drawing your site plan. Having them ready makes the drawing accurate and confirms compliance before you start.

Measurement	Your Measurement	Required Minimum
Feature to nearest wall of house	_______ ft	25 ft (open) / 15 ft (enclosed portable)
Feature to nearest wood fence	_______ ft	25 ft (open) / 15 ft (enclosed portable)
Feature to nearest property line (all sides)	_______ ft	Varies — check local zoning
Chimney height above grade	_______ ft	2 ft above combustibles within 10 ft
Firebox opening width × height	_____× _____ in	Varies — show on drawings
Feature to gas meter	_______ ft	3–5 ft minimum (varies)

FireFeatureRules — firefeaturerules.pages.dev — Informational only. Verify all requirements with your local building department before submitting any permit application.