Can You Have a Fire Pit in Your Lubbock Backyard?

Nothing says "backyard evening" like gathering around a fire pit with your friends.

But, before you drag all the materials into your backyard and start building one, there are a couple of rules worth knowing.

Yes, Lubbock allows you to have an outdoor fire pit, but where you put it matters.

fire in black fire pit

Under the current fire code, a permanently installed outdoor fire pit that will be used for recreational fires has to be at least 10 feet away from any structure or any kind of combustible materials. That includes random stuff that can catch fire, so don't assume you'll get a free pass for your wooden deck or your fence.

And, Portable Fire Pits?

Lubbock codes specifically address permanent fire pits, so the lines get a little blurry.

Different types of outdoor fires and fire containers can fall under totally different sections in the fire code, so it's a good idea to check with Lubbock Fire Rescue before installing something permanent or unusual.

Read More: Things to Check Before Signing a Lubbock Apartment Lease

Backyard Fire Pits Are Not For Trash

This is not some kind of loophole to get rid of your junk, guys. You can't just start burning trash in your new fire pit. Old furniture and cardboard boxes need to stay out of it.

Don't Forget: Weather Conditions Matter

Even if your fire pit is properly placed, you aren't always just in the clear to light it. Lubbock's fire code prohibits burning when the conditions are right for a major fire event. Be careful and only burn it when we aren't under any kind of Red Flag Warnings.

A backyard fire pit can make an awesome addition to your home! Just make sure you're following all the rules and only roasting marshmallows, and not your home insurance policy...