All homeowners need to take certain safety measures with outdoor fire pits. Before building your backyard fire pit area, it’s crucial to know just how far it should be from your home. It is suggested to place your fire pit at least 10 to 25 feet away from any flammable structures or surfaces.
How Far Should A Fire Pit Be From Your House?
A safe fire pit distance is often an important regulation implemented by most counties. Typically, the local communities may establish rules stating a fire pit must be at least 10-25 feet from any flammable structures, as mentioned above. This can include things like your home, the neighbors’ property, trees, shed, wooden deck, and more.
Always keep the fire pit a good distance away from any overhanging branches. The standard for most municipalities is a 21-foot clearance. Refrain from putting the pit close to your property line, if possible. Make sure to check your local guidelines before setting up this area.
Fire Pit Safety Considerations
Home fire pits are legal as long as all your county’s laws and regulations are ultimately followed. Local authorities put these regulations into existence to protect homes, individuals, and the community at large.
Failure to comply with these rules could result in fines and penalties. Fire pit regulations can be quite strict, especially in areas at risk of wildfires. Most areas will also require a burn permit for any outdoor use.
Here are a few of the most common fire pit regulations:
- The fire must be attended to and supervised at all times by an adult.
- DO NOT use the fire pit if there are wind gusts of over 15 miles per hour.
- DO NOT place the pit on uneven ground.
- Fires should never exceed three feet tall or wide.
- All children and pets need to remain at least three feet away from the fire, at all times.
Types Of Fire Pits
Outdoor fire pits create both warmth and charm to any outdoor living space. Let’s take a look at the most commonly used types of fire pits, including the pros and cons of each type.
Natural Gas Fire Pits
Natural gas fire pits offer homeowners both convenience and control. These pits are undoubtedly a popular option for homeowners. They offer easy ignition, as well as very few maintenance needs.
Adjustable flames mean you’ll be able to control both the size of the flame and the intensity overall.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits
These fire pits are a traditional pick, creating a cozy outdoor atmosphere. Oftentimes, this type of fire pit is the most budget-friendly choice.
While these fire pits feature an easy installation process, there will be some maintenance needs over time.
Ethanol Fire Pits
These fire pits utilize bioethanol fuel. They are popular due to their sleek and modern designs.
Ethanol fire pits will not produce any smoke, ash, or odor, but the heat output will certainly be limited.
Propane Gas Fire Pits
These fire pits come complete with the convenience of gas without the need for a natural gas line.
One con to this style of fire pit is that you’ll need to store propane tanks and replace them periodically.
Conclusion
It’s important to understand all of your specific local regulations regarding fire pit use. Knowing the guidelines can prevent both fines and wildfires. For more information about fire pits, contact the experienced team at Sonoran Landscape Design today!

Sonoran Landscape Design In Arizona
We are a Full-Service Design and Build Landscape Contractor. Working within your budget, we will help guide you from the design stage, through construction, all the way to completion. We can even maintain your landscape after completion to ensure your investment stays looking its best.
We offer outdoor fireplace, kitchen, pool, water feature, pergola installations, artificial turf installations, and more! Our highly qualified staff that will ensure you receive a quality landscaping job done, with lasting value! Contact our team today!