Yes, of course, a valve is necessary to turn the gas on and off, and to adjust the flame height. In most of our fire bowls the valve will be placed on the side of the bowl. However, if you decide to set the valve on the ground, or off of the ground on a bench or wall - there are metal covers available to hide the valve; and to keep dirt from getting into the valve when it is placed on the ground. A key is used to turn the shut-off valve on and off, and to adjust volume. The main consideration is to make sure that the shut-off valve is near the bowl and a distance that allows ONE person to light the bowl. Lighting the fire bowl should not be a group assignment.You do want another emergency shut off in case of an emergency to kill the gas going to the bowl, especially if your main line is far away. Never leave the key attached to valve especially if you have children.