Brits have been warned of the £1,000 fine that could be awaiting them if they use firepits to make the most of their summer evenings in their gardens. Experts at Lighting Legends are reminding households to handle firepits responsibly.
Homeowners are being urged to be cautious about where and how they use firepits to avoid injury, property damage, or fines. Lighting Legends shared eight key rules to help stay safe when using firepits. Garden fires that produce excessive smoke or ash may be classed as a statutory nuisance, with penalties of up to £1,000, according to the UK Government website. Councils have the power to issue these fines to protect public health, air quality, and the environment. Adam Wilkins from Lighting Legends said: “Firepits are a great way to extend your time outdoors in the summer evenings. With a comfy seating area, warm garden lighting, and gentle crackle of the flames, they help create a cosy and warm atmosphere so you can make the most of your garden even when the temperatures drop as the sun sets.
“But families who own a firepit should make sure they are using them safely and responsibly by lighting them in a safe space away from other garden features and monitoring the flames.
“You should be mindful of your neighbours too and make sure they’re not being disturbed with any smoke from your firepit. If this happens, they have the right to report you to the local council, and this could potentially lead to fines.”
First, Lighting Legends recommends choosing the right location. Ensure it is placed at a safe distance from anything that could catch fire, such as trees and fences. General guidelines state that firepits should be at least 10 feet away from the home and bushes and trees.
The ground it sits on is equally important. Avoid placing firepits directly on decking, dry leaves, or unstable surfaces. Additionally, any outdoor structures, like pergolas, should have proper ventilation.
When lighting your firepit, it’s also important to consider the weather. Windy conditions can pose serious fire risks, blowing flames in the wrong direction, igniting nearby materials.
The experts went on to say that though lighting a firepit under garden structures like pergolas can create a cosy autumn atmosphere, it’s important to be mindful.
If your pergola is open and made from non-flammable materials, such as aluminium, lighting a firepit underneath won’t be an issue. Take extra precautions if your pergola is made from wood or if you have an additional roof or coverings, and always use a spark screen.
Be sure to keep your firepit away from any hanging features such as string garden lights, hanging plants, or vines. These can easily catch fire from rising smoke or stray sparks.
Lighting Legends recommends lighting your firepit within a safe distance from your home, ensuring it is away from any structures or flammable materials.
Only use natural, dry materials like wood and use firepit-safe firelighters. Add small, dry sticks and twigs to kindling and avoid using household waste and trash, as these can release toxic fumes.
Using a spark screen can help prevent fire accidents and protect against spitting flames that could damage skin, clothing, or furniture. It’s also essential to supervise children and pets, keeping them at a safe distance away from the fire.
Monitoring your firepit, especially as the flames die down, helps prevent unexpected flare-ups. Fires should never be left unattended to ensure they remain under control at all times.
There are several ways to extinguish a firepit, including smothering the flames with non-flammable materials, refraining from adding more fuel, and using water to gently douse the fire. Always check the manufacturer’s guide to ensure you’re using the safest method.