Fire pits are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and entertain friends, but what distance should you keep your fire pit from your house? The answer depends on several factors.
How Far Should Fire Pit Be from House? There is no definitive answer to this question since it can depend on some factors such as the size and type of fire pit, the wind conditions on the day, and the materials used to build the fire pit. However, according to the code of conduct from The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a fire pit should be at least 30 feet away from any structure.
What to Consider When Deciding How Far Your Fire Pit Should Be from Your House
Here are a few things to consider when determining how far your fire pit should be from your house:
Size of Your Fire Pit
The size of the fire pit will have an impact on how far it should be from the house. If you have a small portable propane or charcoal grill, then it can usually be placed on most decks. However, if you have a large permanent type of fire pit, it will need to be further away from the house or any building.
Wind Conditions
The wind conditions on the day will impact how far your fire pit should be from the house. A strong wind can blow embers and sparks towards your home which could cause a fire. Therefore, it is best to have the wind blowing away from your home when you are using a fire pit.
Materials Used
The materials used to make your fire pit will also impact the distance that it should be kept from your house or any structure on your property. A metal fire pit may need to be further away than a stone or concrete fire pit since it may conduct heat differently. Furthermore, different materials can burn at different rates and this will impact the amount of time that your fire pit should be kept away from your house.
Types of Fire Pits
The types of fire pits also impact how far they should be from the house. Permanent type fire pits are generally built when the house is being constructed and are placed where the homeowner wants. Portable propane or charcoal grills can be placed on decks, patios, or at the foot of a driveway. If you have a large permanent type of fire pit, it should be at least 30 feet away from your house. A portable grill should only be placed on decks or patios that are at least 12 feet away from the house.
How to Measure the Distance Between Your House and Fire Pit
There are two methods of measuring the distance between your house and the fire pit.
The first method is to measure from the outside of one wall on your house to another. This is especially helpful if your home has an irregular shape.
The second method is to measure from the property line of your house to where you want to place your fire pit. This method is best if your house has a straight and even border to where you want the fire pit to be placed.
What You Should Know About Building Codes and Fire Pits
The distance between your house and fire pit should follow local building codes, but it’s important to note that these may vary by county, state, or municipality. It is best to check with your local building department for fire pit regulations and codes before you build or install a fire pit.
Tips for Staying Safe While Enjoying Your Fire Pit
No matter how far your fire pit is from your house, there are always some safety tips that you should follow to avoid any accidents. First, make sure the area surrounding the fire is level and clear of any objects. Next, keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the fire pit at all times. If you are using a propane fire pit, then you should never use it while you are sleeping. It is also best to turn on your propane fire pit before you go to sleep for the night and then turn it off again when you wake up in the morning.
Fire pits can be a great addition to your backyard or patio area but they should always be kept safe from your house or any other structure on your property.
Safety Rules And Guidelines for Fire Pits
The fire pit should not be located beneath a combustible overhang or within 30 feet of any structure.
- Never leave the fire unattended, extinguish all fires with water and stir ashes until they are cold to the touch. Be sure your fire is out before going to bed or leaving the site.
- Keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher near your fire pit and know how to use it.
- Construct the pit with care, building it so it won’t fall over and spill burning embers onto combustible surfaces such as wood decks, landscaping cloth that is covered by mulch, or dried leaves on the ground. Keep combustible materials away from the sides of the pit. Always use metal containers for wood ash.
- If you are using a propane or gas fire pit, ensure that it is equipped with an automatic shutoff valve if the flame goes out. Never refuel a fire pit – Turn off the gas at the tank when not in use.
- When in use, keep children and pets 10 feet away from the fire.
Conclusion
In regards to building codes and safety guidelines, the fire pit should be at least 30 feet away from your house. Distance requirements for a portable grill are different because these can vary among locations and different states have their own rules. It is best to check with your local building department for the latest information on state and county regulations.
