Fire Pit Safety Checklist 2025: Distances, Base & Wind
Cosy fire nights should be beautiful—and safe. This practical EU fire pit checklist walks you through location, clearances, base, wind & weather, fuels, and neighbour rules. At the end, you’ll find SUNJOY model tips for Ø76–79 cm fire pits.
1) Location & Clearances (garden/patio safety)
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Keep generous distance from any combustible structure or furniture: in many places 3 m is the bare minimum—5 m to buildings/façades is better, with much more to hedges, fences and wood stacks.
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Overhead clearance: no branches, awnings or eaves above the bowl.
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Neighbouring plots & paths: some municipalities recommend 10 m from the property line; keep public paths/play areas clear.
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Near forests & during drought: open fires are generally prohibited in forests and at high wildfire warning levels.
2) Base & Setup (stable, non-combustible)
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Operate only on a level, stable, non-combustible surface: paving, concrete slabs, or a compacted gravel bed.
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Timber decks: use an approved heat-shield base plus extra clearance—and account for flying sparks.
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For fixed spots, a paved plinth ring (Ø slightly larger than the bowl) is a neat, safe solution.
3) Wind & Weather (when not to use)
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Do not use the fire pit in strong winds—spark drift and unstable flames are the main hazards.
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Check wind direction: position seating and consider neighbours to avoid smoke nuisance.
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A spark-guard lid and, if needed, a windscreen (glass/deflector) improve safety and flame stability.
4) Fuels, Smoke & Courtesy (EU-friendly burning)
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Burn only dry, untreated hardwood (e.g., beech/oak) or suitable briquettes. No painted/treated or wet wood.
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Keep flame height moderate; many municipalities are more lenient with fire bowls under 1 m diameter.
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Be considerate: if smoke builds, throttle or extinguish the fire.
5) Children, Pets & Supervision
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Mark a “no-go circle” around the bowl—no running or rough play there.
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An adult must remain present at all times.
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Keep extinguishing media ready: bucket/hose or sand; heat-resistant gloves and a poker.
6) Model Picks: Ø76 vs Ø79 cm (SUNJOY Select)
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BROMO Ø79 cm – larger diameter, deeper bowl, includes steel inner grate & spark-guard mesh lid; ideal for bigger seating circles and longer evenings.
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HEKLA Ø76 cm / ASKJA Ø76 cm – a smaller footprint with the same convenience features (inner grate, ventilation, spark-guard lid); great for compact terraces.
Tip: Ø79 cm delivers noticeably more radiant heat to outer seats; Ø76 cm saves space. Whichever you choose, always look for a spark-guard lid, inner grate and air vents for a calmer, cleaner burn.
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Legal note: Rules and clearances vary by country/city/fire ordinance. Always check local requirements (council/fire service) and observe temporary bans during drought or wind alerts.
