I just smelted down around 600 lbs in my backyard in a townhome neighbourhood. I do it later in the year when people are not out as much, but I am a fair amount higher than most houses around, and I have a 6ft fence. I have never had anyone complain yet and I have done this a few times so far (maybe 1000 lbs total). I also wrapped the burner in flashing to keep the flame from burning out when it is windy, which also covers the flame from view. Also, as said before, I make sure to clean out the stick on weights, and the valve stems to cut down on the smoke.