Where Should I put My Fire Pit?

*Sniff, sniff*…smell that? Pumpkin spice is in the air, signifying that fall is officially here! Not only does this mean cooler weather, golden sunsets, and pumpkin patches, but the humble fire pit is now ready to take center stage.

Fire pits are becoming a backyard staple, with a bevy of innovative styles that make it possible for anyone to enjoy a crackling fire on a chilly evening, no matter what kind of yard you have.

Gas-powered pits take the leisure up a notch by affording homeowners the luxury of minimal setup and cleaning. Plus, you don’t have to deal with smoke burning your eyeballs, like with classic wood logs.

With the ease of gas pits comes a very important detail: safety. Understanding fire pit safety tips is crucial, no doubt, but a big part of safety is putting a considerable amount of planning into where you will install your pit.

In this post, I’ll focus specifically on how to choose the best place for your fire pit in regards to safety, convenience, and styling.

All about distance

Get out your measuring tape folks, because the distance of your fire pit from various objects around your property is key to safe blazing.

How far should my fire pit be from my house?

Let’s start with the home. Your fire pit should be no less than 10 ft. from any covered structure, such as your house, shed, kids playset, etc. 

If you have ample space, opt for 20-25 ft. to maximize safety.

Pro Tip: Before getting started, it’s a good idea to get in touch with the HOA or your landlord for permission to have a fire pit. As well, regulations differ from neighborhood to neighborhood, especially if wildfires are a threat, so make sure to comply accordingly.

How far should my fire pit be from trees?

Gardeners and homeowners with particularly lush yards don’t have to miss out on the fire fun, but vigilance is key. 

Refrain from placing a fire pit underneath a tree- it’s a recipe for disaster. Instead, you’ll want to keep your pit at least 10 ft. away from trees and shrubs, especially ones that have low hanging branches.

If you have a smaller yard, you’ll have to make it a regular chore to trim back branches that sidle up a bit too close to your pit.

Can I put a fire pit under my covered patio?

The short answer is: yes. BUT, of course, you’ll want to pay attention to the details of the placement.

Gas-powered fire pits are so design-savvy these days, that you can choose one that offers more than just a warm fire. 

Some double as side tables or coffee tables, making them useful for holding drinks and food when not being used to produce a fire.

Other pits make a stylish addition to an outdoor living area, coordinating with furniture and color schemes.

Pro Tip: Gas-powered pits can really become the focal point of your patio when you cover the surface of the pit with fire glass. Fire glass consists of small, colored pieces of glass expertly tempered to withstand high temperatures. It looks beautiful- see for yourself below!

You’ll want your pit to be far enough away from overhead structures for heat to dissipate easily. Otherwise, materials like wooden beams, pergolas, or fabric coverings can warp over time and become an expensive fix down the road.

If you’re not sure, consult with a professional contractor or your HOA, and they can help pinpoint the safest spot for your fire pit to call home.