What is the difference between a fireplace and a grill, and can they be used to cook food?
• A: Des Moines follows the rules set by the Polk County Board, the complete policy can be found at: Refer to Article III Section 5-7: A “Fireplace”, for the purposes of Article III Section 5-7, means a structure, with an open recess at the base of a chimney or stack, with a grate for food preparation and provisions for under-fire air, for holding an outdoor fire off the ground. A “Grill”, for the purposes of Article III Section 5-7, means a cooking utensil with a grate for food preparation and provisions for under-fire air, for holding an outdoor fire off the ground. An outdoor fireplace or grill, as defined above, burning untreated wood or charcoal, may be used solely for the non-commercial preparation of food. Such outdoor fireplaces, grills, and fire pits shall not be used for the burning of refuse, rubbish, or garbage.
