Are wood-burning fireplaces legal in NYC?
They are no longer permissible under NYC Building Code. On Earth Day in 2014, as part of a clean-air initiative and in line with other eco-friendly cities, Mayor Bill DeBlasio announced that as of July 1, 2014 the construction of new wood-burning fireplaces would be banned in New York City.
Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in NYC?
Answer: The answer to this one is straightforward, according to our experts: No, fire pits are not in any way legal to have in a New York City backyard, and you should feel free to report your neighbors before they fill up your apartment with any more smoke.
Does EPA have a voluntary program for fireplaces and fireplace inserts?
EPA has a voluntary program regarding fireplaces and fireplace inserts. For more information, visit EPA's Burn Wise (leaves DEC website), a program that promotes the importance of burning the right wood, the right way, in the right appliance.
What are the fire regulations for chimneys?
All spaces between chimneys and floors and ceilings through which chimneys pass shall be fireblocked with noncombustible material securely fastened in place.
Is it legal to have a fireplace in NYC?
They are no longer permissible under NYC Building Code. On Earth Day in 2014, as part of a clean-air initiative and in line with other eco-friendly cities, Mayor Bill DeBlasio announced that as of July 1, 2014 the construction of new wood-burning fireplaces would be banned in New York City.
Can you use a fireplace in NYC apartment?
Yes you can have a fireplace in a New York City apartment!
Can you use a wood burning fireplace in New York City?
Here's what you can do. Cozying up to a crackling fire in your apartment is just not a reality for most New Yorkers—wood-burning fireplaces are usually sealed or removed during renovations and they're banned in new construction.
Can I put a fireplace in my apartment?
Modern ventless fireplaces, the perfect solution if you want to have a fireplace in your house, apartment, or a condo without a chimney. These vent-free fireplaces provide a convenient, low-cost alternative to traditional fireplaces. They are easier to install and easier to maintain.
Why do apartments have fireplaces?
Fireplaces can reduce your utility bills by warming up your apartment. You can stay warm, keep your heat off for longer periods of time, and enjoy your time relaxing around your fireplace.
Can you install a gas fireplace in a condo?
Replacing a Gas Fireplace in a Condo In some cases, you can use a B-vent insert to be placed inside the old shell of the existing fireplace. This allows you to add a new fireplace to the home while maintaining the existing fireplace, venting, and finishing materials.
Is NY banning burning wood?
Viccaro wants to make it clear, the state is not considering legislation that would ban heating your home with firewood. So if you read or heard that claim, it's false. This all centers around the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act signed into law in 2019.
Is heating with wood illegal in NY?
There's some misinformation circulating on social media that's become a heated discussion. A ban on wood burning in New York. There's a new law going into effect in October that aims to reduce greenhouse emissions. Written in the law is a plan to reduce wood consumption by 40%.
Is it illegal to heat with wood in NY?
A DEC spokesperson confirms to NewsChannel 9, New York State is not considering passing legislation that would prohibit anyone to burn wood or wood products in 2022 at this time.
Can you put a fireplace on a flat wall?
Flat wall fireplaces, often referred to as slimline fireplaces, are available in both traditional and modern styles, with a varied choice of materials, including marble mantels and wooden surrounds, with cast iron fireplace inserts and fascias to perfectly complement the quality electric fires.
Can you put a fireplace on an interior wall?
Modern gas fireplaces can be installed anywhere in the home, whether it be on an interior wall or an exterior wall.
Can I add a fireplace to my house?
Be assured that it is possible to add a fireplace to an existing home. You'll just need to determine which one will work best. Get familiar with your area's building codes to check requirements such as minimum clearances around vent pipes and limits on fireplace emissions.
How do I start a fire in my apartment fireplace?
0:343:45How to Start a Fire in a Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd very very good first just tear off some simple pieces of the birch bark very very small to mixMoreAnd very very good first just tear off some simple pieces of the birch bark very very small to mix in with your very light tinder.
How does a vent free gas fireplace insert work?
Ventless fireplaces use interior air for combustion, which includes anything present in the air and on the burner and release all emissions inside the room they operate – dramatically decreasing the air quality you breathe.
Why do we love wood fireplaces?
There will always opposers to any technology and there will be promoters as well. We believe wood heating serves a purpose of enjoyment, independence, and savings for homeowners. That is essentially why we love wood heat. We’re happy to see the wood fireplace manufacturers invest in improving the technology by lowering the emissions and increasing the efficiency. They are playing a key role in keeping the air we breathe clean and healthy!
What is the EPA regulation for wood stoves?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a regulation to limit the amount of particulates that each wood fireplace can emit up through its chimney.
How do I tell if the stove I am about to buy is truly approved?
On the certification label, it will state if the stove or fireplace is EPA approved. EPA also publishes a list of approved wood and pellet stoves. Click here to look at the current list.
What is the new step 2 limit for wood boilers?
Since May 15 th 2020, new lower Step 2 limits are set to 0.15lbs / mmBTU heat output . (0.10lbs /mmBTU output if the boiler is tested using crib wood)
When will stoves be certified to EPA?
Stoves, Fireplaces, Boilers and Furnaces certified to EPA Step 1 sold before that date will be good to use for as long as the product lasts. Step 1 certified appliances are not to be sold on the Market after May 15 th, 2020.
Is a wood burning fireplace EPA certified?
Some manufacturers have chose to test their fireplaces to a voluntary program under ASTM. Their certification will show as EPA Qualified. (not EPA Certified)
When will the EPA regulations apply to new homes?
No need to do anything as far as the EPA requirements. The new regulations only apply to units sold and installed after May 15 th 2020.
How thick should a fireplace footing be?
Footings for masonry fireplaces and their chimneys shall be constructed of concrete or solid masonry at least 12 inches (305 mm) thick and shall extend at least 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the face of the fireplace or foundation wall on all sides.
What is the minimum thickness of a firebox?
When a lining of firebrick at least 2 inches (51 mm) thick or other approved lining is provided, the minimum thickness of back and side walls shall each be 8 inches (203 mm) of solid masonry, including the lining. The width of joints between firebricks shall not be greater than 1 / 4 inch (6 mm). When no lining is provided, the total minimum thickness of back and side walls shall be 10 inches (254 mm) of solid masonry. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 27 or C 1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199.
How wide is a chimney?
For chimneys up to 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, four No. 4 continuous vertical bars shall be placed between wythes of solid masonry or within the cells of hollow unit masonry and grouted in accordance with Section R609. Grout shall be prevented from bonding with the flue liner so that the flue liner is free to move with thermal expansion. For chimneys more than 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, two additional No. 4 vertical bars shall be provided for each additional flue incorporated into the chimney or for each additional 40 inches (1016 mm) in width or fraction thereof.
What material is used for a fireplace hearth?
Masonry fireplace hearths and hearth extensions shall be constructed of concrete or masonry, supported by noncombustible materials, and reinforced to carry their own weight and all imposed loads. No combustible material shall remain against the underside of hearths and hearth extensions after construction.
What is a masonry heater?
A masonry heater is a heating appliance constructed of concrete or solid masonry, hereinafter referred to as masonry, which is designed to absorb and store heat from a solid -fuel fire built in the firebox by rou ting the exhaust gases through internal heat exchange channels in which the flow path downstream of the firebox may include flow in a horizontal or downward direction before entering the chimney and which delivers heat by radiation from the masonry surface of the heater.
How many inches of straps for chimney?
Two 3 / 16 -inch by 1-inch (5 mm by 25 mm) straps shall be embedded a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) into the chimney. Straps shall be hooked around the outer bars and extend 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the bend. Each strap shall be fastened to a minimum of four floor ceiling or floor joists or rafters with two 1 / 2 -inch (13 mm) bolts.
Where is the damper located in a fireplace?
Masonry fireplaces shall be equipped with a ferrous metal damper located at least 8 inches (203 mm) above the top of the fireplace opening. Dampers shall be installed in the fireplace or the chimney venting the fireplace, and shall be operable from the room containing the fireplace.
How thick should a fireplace footing be?
Footings for masonry fireplaces and their chimneys shall be constructed of concrete or solid masonry not less than 12 inches (305 mm) thick and shall extend not less than 6 inches ( 152 mm) beyond the face of the fireplace or foundation wall on all sides. Footings shall be founded on natural, undisturbed earth or engineered fill below frost depth. In areas not subjected to freezing, footings shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) below finished grade.
What is the minimum thickness of a firebox?
Where a lining of firebrick not less than 2 inches (51 mm) thick or other approved lining is provided, the minimum thickness of back and sidewalls shall each be 8 inches (203 mm) of solid masonry, including the lining. The width of joints between firebricks shall not be greater than 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm). Where a lining is not provided, the total minimum thickness of back and side walls shall be 10 inches (254 mm) of solid masonry. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 27 or C 1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199.
How wide is a chimney?
For chimneys up to 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, four No. 4 continuous vertical bars shall be placed between wythes of solid masonry or within the cells of hollow unit masonry and grouted in accordance with Section R606. Grout shall be prevented from bonding with the flue liner so that the flue liner is free to move with thermal expansion. For chimneys more than 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, two additional No. 4 vertical bars shall be provided for each additional flue incorporated into the chimney or for each additional 40 inches (1016 mm) in width or fraction thereof.
What is a masonry heater?
A masonry heater is a heating appliance constructed of concrete or solid masonry, hereinafter referred to as masonry, that is designed to absorb and store heat from a solid -fuel fire built in the firebox by routing the exhaust gases through internal heat exchange channels in which the flow path downstream of the firebox includes flow in a horizontal or downward direction before entering the chimney and that delivers heat by radiation from the masonry surface of the heater.
What is the minimum thickness of smoke chamber walls?
Smoke chamber walls shall be constructed of solid masonry units, hollow masonry units grouted solid, stone or concrete. The total minimum thickness of front, back and side walls shall be 8 inches (203 mm) of solid masonry. The inside surface shall be parged smooth with refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199. Where a lining of firebrick not less than 2 inches (51 mm) thick, or a lining of vitrified clay not less than 5 / 8 inch (16 mm) thick, is provided, the total minimum thickness of front, back and side walls shall be 6 inches (152 mm) of solid masonry, including the lining. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199. Vitrified clay linings shall conform to ASTM C 315.
How high above grade should a chimney be?
Masonry or concrete chimneys in Seismic Design Category D 0, D 1 or D 2 shall be anchored at each floor, ceiling or roof line more than 6 feet (1829 mm) above grade, except where constructed completely within the exterior walls. Anchorage shall conform to the requirements of Section R1001.4.1.
Where is the damper located on a Masonry fireplace?
R1001.7.1 Damper. Masonry fireplaces shall be equipped with a ferrous metal damper located not less than 8 inches (203 mm) above the top of the fireplace opening. Dampers shall be installed in the fireplace or the chimney venting the fireplace, and shall be operable from the room containing the fireplace.
What to do if you smoke from a neighbor's OWB?
Contact the DEC regional office for your location if you are adversely impacted by smoke from a neighbor's OWB.
What is a gas burner?
designed to burn wood or other fuels; that the manufacturer specifies for outdoor installation or installation in structures not normally occupied by humans; and. that are used to heat building space and/or water through the distribution, typically through pipes, of a gas or liquid (e.g., water or water/antifreeze mixture) heated in the device.
Is a wood stove regulated by the DEC?
New indoor wood stoves are not regulated by the DEC. They are regulated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through a New Source Performance Standard (40 CFR 60, Subpart AAA). For more information, visit EPA's Wood Heater Compliance Monitoring Program (leaves DEC website).
How much does an LED fireplace cost?
They won't work during a power outage either. Pricing: LED fireplaces can be as low as $1,000, and water vapor models start at around $2,500. Installation is relatively easy for LED models, which can be as shallow as four inches.
What is a ventless fireplace?
A Hearth Cabinet Ventless Fireplace, fueled by isopropyl gel, is an eco-friendly alternative to wood and gas fireplaces. The three-sided peninsula model in this Flatiron residence is fabricated with custom oxidized steel. Design by Rise Projects
How many BTUs does a 240 volt fireplace produce?
On average, standard units produce 4,600 BTUs per hour, whereas built-in models that can be hardwired for 240 volts that can produce up to 8,900 BTUs. Cons: You won't get a real flame, which may or may not be a deal-breaker. Finocchiaro says water vapor fireplaces tend to be more realistic looking than LED.
What is the purpose of LED bulbs in an electric fireplace?
Electric fireplaces. There are two types of electric fireplaces, one that uses LED bulbs to give the illusion of a flame and another that relies on a combination of LED and water vapor (or mist technology) to simulate flames and smoke.
Where did Streich convert his fireplace?
Streich converted a wood-burning fireplace for a client in Sutton Place, who in addition to going with an ethanol model spent $5,000 on a mantel from Europe (and added rocks that sparkle when the fire is lit). Or you could just park a simulated burning log set inside.
Can you put a wood burning fireplace in an apartment?
Cozying up to a crackling fire in your apartment is just not a reality for most New Yorkers—wood-burning fireplaces are usually sealed or removed during renovations and they’re banned in new construction. Then there are the environmental concerns about wood fireplace emissions contributing to indoor air pollution that are a big turn-off to many.
Is a water vapor fireplace more realistic?
Finocchiaro says water vapor fireplaces tend to be more realistic looking than LED. You'll have to have an electric outlet nearby and depending on how often you use the fireplace, you may see a slight spike in your electrical bill, though not by much (and you'll be saving on heating costs).
What is the mayor's proposal for a new fireplace?
The mayor proposed that new fireplaces use "cleaner" fuel-burning methods like electric or natural gas. These products include inserts built into the existing hearth or freestanding gas or electric fireplaces, which produce less pollution.
How does a fireplace affect the air in a room?
Department of Energy. That's 18,000 cubic feet of heated air lost each hour through your fireplace's chimney. As the warm air travels up your chimney, cold air from windows, doors and other parts of your home are drawn to the fireplace. The room may stay warm, but the rest of your home is actually getting cooler.
What is direct vent fireplace?
One critical component to look for when evaluating gas fireplace inserts is direct-vent technology. Direct-vent units have sealed fireboxes and venting that expel 100 percent of exhaust outside of the home -- ensuring clean, safe indoor air quality. Fireplace inserts come in numerous designs and fuel types allowing homeowners to find an insert that fits their needs for style and performance.
What is a fireplace insert?
Fireplace inserts come in numerous designs and fuel types allowing homeowners to find an insert that fits their needs for style and performance. There are also other inserts that use alternative fuels and feature designs that are more contemporary.
What is the biofuel used in a fireplace?
Bio-ethanol fireplaces: The biofuel used in this appliance, also called ethyl alcohol, is derived from agricultural products, primarily corn.
Is a fireplace considered a low cost heating system?
Although considered by most to be a low-cost method of heating a room, traditional, open-masonry fireplaces create the reverse affect on the rest of your home.
Does a fireplace keep the room warm?
As the warm air travels up your chimney, cold air from windows, doors and other parts of your home are drawn to the fireplace. The room may stay warm, but the rest of your home is actually getting cooler. The mayor proposed that new fireplaces use "cleaner" fuel-burning methods like electric or natural gas.