Expert: James Ball - 9/29/2009

Question
Hello James,

Our company has been constructing outdoor masonry fireplaces in the State of California for many years and up until recently the local city inspectors have not required any dampers, one city in particular is quite difficult to work with.  All of our fireplaces are engineered w/ structural calcs and none of the engineers have ever required dampers.  The fireplace is merely an outdoor gas burning "glorified fire pit".  I've searched relentlessly to find a code pertaining to "outdoor fireplaces" and have come up empty.  City inspector keeps reverting back to indoor codes.  One requirement I have read for indoor fireplaces is that if it is "gas burning" you must lock the damper in the open position.  Can you come up with any documents that state whether or not a damper is necessary in an outdoor situation?  Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Sincerely, Ryan

Answer
Hello Ryan, I would start with your local building department, no matter what I find they have the final say.
if you did not install a  damper at construction could you add a top seal damper with pull chain after (you can still add the Lock to keep it from closing all the way
James