Fireworks, Open Fires and Charcoal Grills

Kutztown University Policy SAF-005

  1. Purpose

    To define regulations and procedures for the use of fireworks, open fires and charcoal grills on University property. 

    The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Environmental Protection (PA-DEP), have promulgated regulations governing the open burning of materials.   

    Provisions in the PA-DEP regulations apply to Kutztown University, under Title V of the Air Pollution Control Act (amended in 1992), which prohibit open burning when there is a reasonable expectation that visible emissions from the burning and/or malodorous air contaminants will pass beyond the property boundaries.  Since it cannot be guaranteed that emissions and odors will remain within the confines of the University boundaries, open burning is prohibited on University property. 

    Additionally, fireworks, open fires, and outdoor cooking devices present a significant threat of injury or an uncontrolled fire due to changing weather conditions, accidents, misuse and negligence, among other potential causes. 

  2. Scope

    This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, organizations and visitors who may be affected by this policy and accompanying procedures. 

  3. Key words and phrases:

    Approved charcoal grill device – a pre-manufactured charcoal grill appliance specifically designed for cooking.   

    Water source – a garden hose attached to a building water supply, pressurized water fire extinguisher, or pail/bucket with at least a 2.5 gallon capacity. 

    Fireworks – Any airborne or handheld device that emits embers, sparks, smoke or flames for the purpose of entertainment or celebration 

  4. Policy & Procedure(s)

    • Open Burning  

      Open burning, such as bonfires, burning of agricultural debris, etc. is prohibited on University property. 

    • Fireworks  

      Fireworks are prohibited on University Property.    

      Exception:  Any person, club, department or group representing the University that proposes to use fireworks near or on the campus must first consult with officials from the Office of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS). A permit will be issued by EHS, contingent on review of the fireworks display plan, authorizing the organization to contract with an experienced-reputable pyrotechnic company.  

    • Charcoal Fires  

      Charcoal-type fires are permitted on University property, under the following provisions:

      • Established charcoal pits or approved charcoal grill devices must be used. 

      • Grills must be kept a minimum of 15-feet from combustible materials and buildings or building openings (i.e. windows or doors).  

      • Grills must be used outside of buildings and tents to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide gas build-up inside the space. 

      • Only commercial charcoal lighter fluids shall be used to ignite charcoal grill fires.  Lighter fluids shall be used in strict accordance with manufacturer’s directions.   

      • A water source must be available for fire suppression in an emergency.  Charcoal-type fires shall never be left unattended or allowed to self extinguish.   

      • All fires or hot coals shall be completely extinguished and properly disposed, following their use.  Coals shall never be dumped on the ground; coals shall be disposed in an approved trash receptacle only when it is assured that the coals are incapable of causing a fire. 

        Planned charcoal grill use for official University recognized departments, groups or clubs, shall be registered with the Office of Environmental Health and Safety by electronically mailing (e-mail) the following information:  time, date, location and party utilizing the charcoal grill.  

        This policy does not apply to propane gas operated grill appliances.  Approved devices of this type may be utilized on campus grounds (outside only) subject to their use in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. 

  5. Effective Dates

    June 25, 2008 

  6. Approved By

    Gerald Silberman, Vice President for Administration and Finance 

  7. Last Review

    August, 2009 
    August, 2010 
    August, 2011 
    August, 2012 
    August, 2013 
    June 2026 (renamed from A&F-024)