A portable fire pit is a practical choice for the backyard when you don’t want to have a designated fire pit area, all year round.
In Brisbane, winter is quite mild and more people would opt for a pool than a fire pit due to the climate so a portable fire pit is ideal.
There are some points to consider before purchasing a portable fire pit. Here’s what you need to check before you purchase one for the backyard.
1. Check for fire bans before you fire up
It’s important to check with your local council or shire on the regulations around fires on your property. Most councils will allow a BBQ or similar appliance for lighting a fire. But always check before you light up – especially if you’re in an area where a fire prohibition has been put in place. You can’t light a fire pit in a fire banned area.
If you reside in Brisbane, you can light a fire in the backyard providing
the fire is used to cook food for human consumption in a barbecue or similar structure (but not a fire on the ground)
2. Control the flame and smoke
It’s important to control the flames and smoke emitted from the fire pit. Don’t stoke the fire to create large flames. Also remember, you cannot cause a smoke nuisance to your neighbours and you can be fined if the smoke is excessive. Manage the flame by only burning seasoned dry firewood.
3. Position in the open air
A fire pit should be exposed out in the open air to allow for the escape of smoke and for safety. Fire pits emit a bit of mess, so an open, paved or gravel area in the yard is ideal. Ensure its level ground to avoid the fire pit spilling out onto the ground.
If you position on the grass, use pavers or bricks to protect the lawn from scorch marks. You can get fire pits with stands so they don’t sit on the floor.
Don’t position the fire pit where there are overhanging branches or trees in case they catch on fire.
4. Ensure adequate seating
Most people like to gather around the fire pit, so having chairs in timber or outdoor furniture that can withstand the elements outside are ideal.
5. Supervision is a must
Kids love sitting around a fire and roasting marshmallows or damper on a stick. For a deliciously sweet dessert, you MUST try these Tim Tam S’mores.
Even though our fire pit is heat resistant, safety needs to be considered around fires.
Adult supervision is a must around fire pits. It’s also important the fire is well put out after use. Be sure to check for embers and use water to put out the fire.
We got our fire pit from Bunnings for $89 during the pandemic 3 years ago. Fire wood is available also for purchase for around $15-$20 per bag.
If you go on a country drive, you may be able to pick up bags of firewood from locals in the area.
If you want a fire pit for your yard this winter, here are some I found online. Most are on sale, and prices can be found when you press on the link.
Portable Fire Pits
- Markoe Outdoor Fire Pit
- Fire Pit Brazier BBQ on legs with grill and mesh lid
- Phoenix Steel Fire Pit
- Marrakesh Black Fire Pit
- BBQ Grill Smoker Outdoor Portable Fire Pit
- Steel 40cm Diameter Fire Pit
- Grillz Fire Pit Outdoor Table Charcoal Fireplace
- Grillz Portable Fire Pit Bowl
Do you have a portable fire pit you bring out each winter? What’s your favourite thing to do around the fire pit?
Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All prices and availability are valid at time of publishing.
