Outdoor fire pits are a popular and timeless way to bring people together. However, along with the charm comes responsibility. Fire pits can raise safety concerns, affect your homeowners’ insurance and increase liability if not managed properly. Here’s what you should know to protect your home, your guests and your financial well-being.
Pre-Installation: Check Local Rules and Pick a Location
Before you invest in a fire pit, check with your local fire department or building code office to determine if outdoor fire pits are allowed. Some municipalities have specific regulations covering size, fuel type, clearance distances and whether a permit is required.
If your property is subject to a homeowners’ association (HOA) or similar governing body, you’ll want to review its rules as well. Some HOAs limit or ban open-flame devices or impose placement and usage restrictions on fire pits.
Select a location that meets local safety requirements. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends keeping fire pits at least 10 feet away from structures, trees, fences or other combustibles, but local regulations may mandate an even greater distance, depending on where you live.
Placement on a non-combustible surface, such as concrete pavers or a brick patio, is recommended (and may be required by law), rather than on grass or a wooden deck.
Choosing a Fire Pit Type
Your insurance and building responsibilities will depend on whether your fire pit is portable or permanent. Portable pits are often treated as personal property, while built-in fire pits may fall under “other structures” coverage in your homeowners’ policy.
Before construction, document your design, materials, fuel type and discuss your plans with your insurance agent. Adding a fire pit could change your risk profile, so confirm that:
- Your policy allows for the installation and use of a fire pit.
- Your “other structures” or personal property coverage is sufficient.
- Your liability coverage protects against injuries or property damage that may stem from usage of the fire pit.
Failing to disclose new additions or violating local laws could affect your claim eligibility or even lead to your homeowners’ policy being canceled.
Fire Pit Installation and Usage
Use weather-resistant, non-combustible materials that comply with fire code standards. Burn only seasoned hardwood or approved fire logs. It is never a good idea to burn trash, treated wood or accelerants like gasoline or kerosene.
Install a spark screen or mesh cover to contain embers, and make sure to keep a clear area around the pit that’s free of debris or overhanging tree branches. Maintain at least several feet of space between the pit and any seating.
When using your fire pit:
- Always have an adult present and actively supervising the fire.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Remind children that embers and surfaces may remain hot long after the flames have died down.
- Avoid using an outdoor fire pit on windy days.
- Refrain from using accelerants to ignite or rekindle flames. This could increase the risk of an uncontrolled fire and may violate your insurance company’s requirements for fire pit usage.
Keep a garden hose, sand bucket or Class ABC fire extinguisher nearby. When you’re done using the fire pit, spread coals, add water, stir ashes and confirm they’re completely cool before leaving the area. Consider storing ashes in a metal container away from combustibles until they have fully cooled.
Regularly inspect your fire pit for cracks, loose stones or debris buildup. Clean the area as needed and repair damage promptly.
Home Insurance and Risk Management
If you increase your backyard’s value or add features that increase risk (such as a fire pit), your insurance premiums may increase, or you may need to adjust your coverage. Failure to disclose the addition of a fire pit or non-compliance with local rules could jeopardize your home’s coverage.
Your homeowners’ insurance liability coverage typically covers injury or property damage for which you are legally responsible. Given that fire pits represent a higher-risk activity, it’s important to ensure that your liability limits are sufficient in case of guest injury or neighboring property damage. You may also consider an umbrella personal liability policy to provide additional protection.
Keep documentation, including photos of installation, fire pit layout, materials used, local permits or approvals (if any) and your communications with your insurance agent. Good records can support a claim if needed.
Review your homeowners’ insurance coverage annually or whenever you make changes (for example, adding a permanent fire pit, expanding seating or installing a gas line) to help ensure alignment between your risk and your insurance coverage.
If an Accident Happens
If a fire spreads or embers ignite nearby materials:
- Extinguish it immediately if it’s safe to do so, or call 911 if you’re unable to.
- Notify your insurance agent as quickly as possible to avoid claim delays.
- Photograph the damage around the property and note details like time, weather and witnesses.
If a guest is injured:
- Seek medical attention immediately to prevent further injury.
- Inform your insurance agent and provide incident details that may have led to the injury.
- Keep records showing your fire pit setup, including safety clearances and equipment condition.
- After the incident is reviewed, understand what happened and update your setup or safety measures to help prevent a repeat incident.
How Higginbotham Can Help
A fire pit can be a source of connection, comfort and joy, but it also brings added risk. Making informed decisions and having the right protections in place can help you enjoy your outdoor space with confidence.
At Higginbotham, our team works with homeowners to identify risks and structure insurance coverage that aligns with your lifestyle. Whether you’re building a new fire pit or evaluating existing backyard features, we’re here to help you stay protected.
Contact us today to review your personal insurance coverage, adjust your liability limits or ask about risk management strategies for your property. Together, we can help you safely enjoy the moments that matter.
