A crackling campfire in the garden is the perfect place to unwind and create unforgettable moments with family and friends. Whether outdoors in the summer or on cool fall evenings, the play of the flames creates a very special atmosphere. But before you light the first spark, there are a few rules and tips you should follow to make sure your garden fire is safe and legal.
Table of contents
Fire in the garden: Is it allowed?
Rules for garden fires
Burning garden waste: What is allowed?
Bonfire in the garden: fire basket or fire bowl?
The right wood for your campfire
Correct reaction in the event of a fire
How do you build the perfect campfire?
How to turn your next campfire in the garden into an experience
1. fire in the garden: is it allowed?
The legal situation regarding fires in the garden varies depending on the federal state and region.
- Closed fireplaces such as fire baskets or fire bowls are generally permitted. They fall under the Federal Immission Control Act and do not require a permit. You can find suitable models in our range here.
- Open fires such as campfires on the ground, on the other hand, often require a permit. Find out from your local authority whether you need to register one.
- Fines: Anyone who does not adhere to the regulations must expect severe penalties.
2. rules for garden fires
There are clear rules to ensure that your campfire remains safe:
- Supervision: Never leave the fire unattended.
- Distances:
- 5 m from buildings and flammable objects
- 10 m from neighboring properties
- 50 m from public squares, roads and footpaths
- 100 m from forests
- Observe wind direction: Avoid flying sparks on flammable surfaces.
- Safety:
- Have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher ready.
- Do not use fire accelerants such as gasoline.
- After the fire: Make sure that the embers are completely extinguished.
- Fire safety regulations and regional fire bans (e.g. during drought) must be observed.
3. burning garden waste: What is allowed?
According to the Closed Substance Cycle Waste Management Act, the burning of garden waste is generally prohibited. Only in rare exceptional cases - e.g. in rural areas - can a permit be granted. Strict safety measures must be observed.
4. bonfire in the garden: fire basket or fire bowl?
A fire basket or fire bowl are ideal alternatives to the classic campfire. Here is a comparison:
Fire basket |
Fire bowl |
| Less open space required | Larger area for wood |
| Can be lit more quickly | Can warm a larger group |
| Wood burns faster | Embers and ashes remain in the bowl |
| Only warms a small round | Needs more time to ignite |
Are you still looking? Take a look at our selection of fire pits.
5. the right wood for your campfire
The wood determines the quality of your fire:
- Hardwood: beech, ash, birch or oak - burns longer and more evenly.
- Softwood: spruce, fir, larch or pine - ideal for lighting, but burns faster.
- Only use dry and untreated wood to avoid smoke and pollutants.
6 Correct reaction in the event of a fire
If something does go wrong, the following applies:
- Keep calm.
- Only attempt to extinguish the fire if you are not putting yourself in danger.
- Call 112 if you cannot control the fire.
- Answer the W questions: Where, What, How many, What dangers, Who?
- Follow the instructions of the fire department.
7 How do you build the perfect campfire?
The classic pyramid shape is ideal:
- Pile dry kindling in the center.
- Stack thicker logs around it in a pyramid shape.
- Light the base - the flames will spread evenly upwards.
The stepped pyramid shape is suitable for longer burning.
8 How to turn your next campfire in the garden into an experience
With the right Petromax products, your campfire will be a highlight:
- Fire pits: Perfect for your safe garden fire. Discover now.
- Lighting and fuel: For an easy start. To the range.
- Accessories for the campfire: Get inspiration for unforgettable evenings - from cast iron kettles to grill plates. Take a look here.
With these tips and products, your campfire will not only be safe, but also an atmospheric experience that will be remembered for a long time. Have fun and enjoy the magical hours by the fire!
