Great questions. Per the installation manual: "Maintenance ,DISPOSAL OF ASHES: Ashes should be removed from the firebox every few days or when ashes get to 2 to 3 inches deep. Always empty the firebox when it is cold. Ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tightfitting lid. The closed container of ashes should be placed on a noncombustible floor on the ground, well away from all combustible materials, pending final disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained in the closed container until a cinders have thoroughly cooled." -- If you have any further questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out to one of our experienced customer service representative and they would be happy to assist you. Thank you and have a wonderful day.