Patio Chimney Clearance Requirements

Chimney Height

• Any chimney, including a patio fireplace chimney, must be at least 2 feet higher than any building structure within 10 feet, according to the Professional Deck Builder website. This can mean the patio chimney needs to extend above the roof of the home if the fireplace is placed within 10-feet of the exterior walls. Placing the patio fireplace more than 10 feet from the house avoids some of these concerns. The patio fireplace chimney would still need to extend at least 2 feet above any structures associated with the patio.

Trees and Shrubs

• Avoid placing landscape plantings such as trees and shrubs where branches will extend above the chimney. The leaves can pose a fire hazard, especially in the fall. The heat from the fireplace can also impact the growth and health of plants.

Building Codes

• Local building and zoning codes can vary and impact the placement of the patio fireplace and chimney. Moving the fireplace away from the house may not be an option if it would place the unit too close to the lot line and violate setback ordinances. Check local ordinances concerning building permits before starting the construction of any project.

Fire Codes

• Some communities prohibit outdoor fires entirely, while others have seasonal bans on open burning -- especially during dry seasons. Maintaining a spark arrester -- a wire mesh cover over the chimney opening -- is always a good idea and may be required by law in some localities.