What are the rules around using fire pits at home?

Enjoying a cozy fire pit on a cold winter night is a popular pastime, but homeowners must be aware of the regulations surrounding their use. The ability to have a fire pit largely depends on your specific location and any current fire restrictions in place.

Fire departments in each state and territory maintain fire ban maps, and local councils can provide detailed information. During a total fire ban day, fire pits are strictly prohibited. Even during a fire danger period, when fire use is generally restricted, specific conditions apply. For instance, the Country Fire Authority in Victoria advises that wind speeds should not exceed 10 kilometers per hour, and fires should not be lit if leaves are visibly moving.

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The fire danger period is when most people use fire pits, on those semi-warm nights, coming into spring or in autumn.

Safety is paramount when using fire pits, braziers, or chimineas. The fire must be contained within a properly constructed fireplace, such as a stone, metal, or concrete structure, or a commercially produced unit. Fires should not exceed one meter by one meter, and a three-meter area around and above the fire must be kept clear of flammable materials like decking, roofing, trees, and shrubs. Crucially, a fire must never be left unattended, and must be completely extinguished with water before leaving the area.

Outside of designated fire danger periods, local municipal by-laws govern fire pit use. For example, Brisbane City Council permits fire pits and braziers in residential areas, provided they do not create smoke nuisances for neighbors, are elevated off the ground, and do not pose a safety risk. Consumer advocacy group CHOICE has also compared various fire pit types, noting that cast-iron and stainless steel models are durable but can be more expensive, while steel pits are cheaper but prone to rust. Brick or stone fire pits are often built-in structures, requiring professional installation or careful DIY to meet safety guidelines.

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only a subtle breeze