Bonfire Rules: What Every Camper Needs to Know

Planning a night around a fire? A good bonfire feels like the heart of any trip, but it can also cause trouble if you ignore the basics. Below you’ll find the most useful rules that keep you legal, safe, and still enjoying that crackling glow.

Know the Local Rules

First thing: check the site’s by‑law or local council website. Many parks post fire bans when the weather is dry, and some sites require a permit before you even light a spark. It’s easy to miss a sign, so take a few seconds to ask the ranger or look for a notice board. If you’re on private land, ask the owner for permission. Ignoring these rules can mean a fine, or worse, a fire that spreads.

Some areas allow only a metal fire pit, while others let you build a simple pit with stones. Knowing what’s allowed ahead of time saves a lot of hassle and keeps the land managers happy.

Set Up Your Bonfire the Right Way

Start with a cleared spot at least three metres away from tents, trees, and anything flammable. Remove leaves, twigs, and dry grass. If you have a fire ring, use it. If not, dig a shallow trench and line it with stones to contain the flames.

Keep the fire small—no bigger than a basketball. A tiny fire gives enough heat for cooking and warmth without turning into a wildfire risk. Use dry, seasoned wood; avoid green branches or trash, which smoke a lot and can spark.

Never add accelerants like gasoline or lighter fluid. They might light fast, but they also create dangerous flare‑ups and are illegal in many campsites.

Always have a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby. If the wind picks up, you can smother the flames instantly. Keep an eye on the fire at all times—don’t walk away even for a quick bathroom break.

When you’re done, drown the fire. Pour water over the embers, stir the ash, and repeat until you hear only sizzles. No smoke means the fire is out. Some sites ask you to leave the area as you found it, so make sure no hot coals are buried.

Follow these simple bonfire rules and you’ll enjoy a safe, legal fire that adds to the adventure rather than causing headaches. Happy camping!