Fire Pit Clearance & Firewood Calculator
Positioning a fire pit too close to fences, decking or overhanging branches is a real fire risk, and running out of wood halfway through the evening cuts things short. Choose your fire pit size and planned burn time below for a safe clearance distance and a firewood estimate.
Check fire pit clearance and firewood needed
Choose your fire pit size and how many hours you plan to burn it for.
Keep at least 3.5m clear from fences, sheds, decking and overhanging branches in every direction.
9.0kg of firewood
That's around 1 × 10kg nets for 3 hours of burning.
Recommended products
A few well-reviewed fire pits and chimineas.
£89.99
Pros
- Corten steel develops a rust patina and resists corrosion
- Wide bowl throws heat well for garden seating areas
- Well-reviewed with hundreds of ratings
Cons
- Gets very hot to the touch — needs a heatproof base
£149.99
Pros
- Integrated grill grate adds cooking use alongside the fire bowl
- Tall chimney design directs smoke away from seating
- Well-reviewed with hundreds of ratings
Cons
- Very heavy — awkward to reposition once sited
£24.99
Pros
- Compact size suits small patios and balconies
- Smokeless stainless steel design
- Lightweight enough to move and store easily
Cons
- Small fuel capacity means shorter burn times
Frequently asked questions
How far should a fire pit be from a fence or shed?
A minimum of around 3m from any structure, fence, hedge or overhanging branches is a common safety guideline, with larger fire pits needing more clearance due to bigger flames and more radiant heat. Always check your fire pit manufacturer's specific guidance too.
Can I use a fire pit on decking?
Standard wood-burning fire pits are generally not recommended directly on timber decking due to fire risk and scorching, even with a raised base — look for a heatproof fire pit mat, paving slabs, or gravel area instead.
What firewood burns best in a fire pit?
Well-seasoned hardwood (like oak, ash or birch) with a moisture content under 20% burns hotter, cleaner and longer than unseasoned or softwood, which tends to smoke more and burn out faster.
Do I need council permission for a garden fire pit?
In most cases, a domestic fire pit used responsibly doesn't need permission, but you should still be mindful of smoke drifting into neighbours' gardens, avoid burning on very windy days, and check for any local smoke control area restrictions.