From marshmallow roasts to long talks under the stars, a firepit is the ultimate gathering place for making cherished memories. However, this enjoyment can burn out quickly if your firepit is too close to the fence line, in a windy spot, or under a low-hanging branch waiting to catch a spark.
Putting your firepit in the right spot is essential for safety and comfort, and it requires careful planning. This guide explores key considerations to help you choose the best location for your firepit and maximize the enjoyment of your outdoor space.
5 Considerations for Firepit Placement
Finding the perfect location for your firepit involves a few essential considerations. Below, we list the most important factors to keep in mind when determining where to put your new fire feature.
1. Firepit Safety Regulations
Safety is the last thing you want to worry about when relaxing with friends and family, but this isn’t an area for compromise—especially when fire is involved. You should always check state, county, and Homeowner’s Association (HOA) guidelines for regulations about where to put your firepit.
While specifics may vary depending on your location, there should be at least 10 feet of space between your fire feature and surrounding structures, including your home, sheds, and fences. If you’re in an area prone to wildfires, you may also want to talk to your local fire department for additional safety tips regarding firepit location.
Meeting all regulations is crucial for safety, compliance, and avoiding costly fines or legal ramifications. It’s much better to ensure your firepit’s location meets all regulations before installation rather than after.
2. Overhead Clearance
Overhead clearance is the vertical distance between your firepit and anything above it. This includes roofs, awnings, or trees with low-hanging branches. A good rule of thumb is to ensure at least 10 feet of overhead clearance above the flames to prevent sparks or flying embers from igniting anything.
Firepits can still be placed under structures like pergolas, as long as there is proper ventilation and clearance.
3. Firepit Seating
If you’d like to have seating around your firepit, it’s important to consider this when deciding where it should go, as it may determine how much space the feature needs.
Firepits emit heat in all directions, so there should be enough room for people to sit comfortably at varying distances from the fire. You may also want to consider the number of seats that will be placed around your firepit, so you can position it in a way that avoids overcrowding.
4. Wind Direction
Whether you’re using a gas or wood-burning firepit, too much wind exposure can make the experience uncomfortable and even unsafe. Wind can fan flames, carry ash and smoke, and simply be a bother when you’re trying to relax around the fire.
Consider placing your firepit in an area with natural wind barriers like walls, trees, and fences. This can help reduce the intensity of wind and keep guests more comfortable. However, you should still ensure safe clearance between the flames and surrounding structures.
You may also want to consider any prevailing wind patterns in your yard. This can help you choose a spot that minimizes wind impact on your firepit and the guests who will be sitting around it.
5. Relaxation and Ambiance
When choosing a location for your firepit, you’ll want to create an environment that promotes relaxation and sets the right tone for an enjoyable gathering. To keep things serene, avoid installing it too close to the sounds of busy roads, loud air conditioning units, or areas with frequent foot traffic.
Find the Perfect Firepit for Your Home
Selecting the right location for your firepit is essential for safety, compliance with local regulations, and comfort. By keeping these factors in mind, you can create an inviting outdoor space to enjoy with friends and family for years to come.
If you’re considering adding a fire feature to your home, Creative Energy is here to help! We carry a wide range of energy-efficient gas firepits for every lifestyle, design, and budget. Contact us online to learn more, or stop by one of our Bay Area showrooms to browse our selection in person!