Fire Pit Guidelines

Building and Landscape Fire Prevention

Fire pits can be a great way for teams to enhance the atmosphere or create a unique setting for internal events. This document provides guidelines and best practices to ensure safety and prevent accidents or injuries. While not an exhaustive list, these recommendations are designed to support a fun and enjoyable experience without compromising safety or creativity.


Day Before

  1. Check weather conditions - Fire pits cannot be used if the county / local fire department has issued a burn ban in your county/city.

Gather the Right Supplies

  1. Collect appropriate chairs (black folding or camping chairs only) for seating. Please do NOT use any auditorium/fabric chairs under any circumstances. 
  2. If you use white folding tables, please keep them at least 10 feet away from the pit. 
  3. Please store all other supplies (i.e. firestarter, lighters, lighter fluid, food, drinks, etc.) at least 10 feet away from the pit. All fire-starting supplies must be kept separate from food/drink stations. 

Pick a Great Spot

  1. Place fire pits on concrete/asphalt or fire-proof base.
  2. Do not place fire pits near or under low-hanging branches.
  3. Keep fire pits 10 - 25 feet away from buildings, vehicles, and bushes.
  4. Pre-set one or more emergency extinguishing supplies close by and ready to go - fire extinguishers, buckets of water, or a water hose with a nozzle.

Watch Carefully

  1. Once lit, make sure fires are actively attended to at all times. Do not leave active, lit fire pits unattended. 
  2. Ask one person to watch over only one fire pit at a time during the activity to ensure a safe environment. 
  3. Use a metal screen to contain sparks (if applicable).
  4. Please remind any children without their parents that they may only participate in the firepit activities with a parent’s full attention. 

Cleaning Up

  1. All coals should be thoroughly soaked with water AND left to cool for a minimum of 12 hours. (Do not put coals into a dumpster on the same day as the fire.)
  2. Store fire pits in a safe place outdoors until they can be cleaned.

Next Day

  1. Come back to the site with a friend and dump cold ashes into an empty bag and into the dumpster. (Bag ideas include lawn clippings bag or empty charcoal bag)