Zevachim 115 - When Sacrificing Outside is Permitted
Initially sacrificial service was done by the firstborn, and everybody was allowed to build his private altar. This is mentioned in the Torah when it says, "And Moses sent the youths of the Children of Israel, and they brought up burnt offerings." The firstborn lost this privilege after they worshipped the Golden Calf, and the kohanim, the sons of Aaron, began to serve in their stead.
Once the Tabernacle was erected, private altars became forbidden. When the Jews came Israel, crossed the Jordan, and erected the Tabernacle at Gilgal, near Jericho, private altars again became permitted. Finally, they became completely prohibited after the building of the Temple in Jerusalem.
Art: Johann Wilhelm Schirmer - The Departure Of The Man To Jericho Morning C.1856
