About Our Firepit Range
There's nothing quite like gathering around a firepit on a cool Australian evening. Whether you're entertaining friends, enjoying a quiet night in the backyard, or extending your outdoor season through the cooler months, a quality firepit adds warmth, ambience, and a genuine focal point to any outdoor space.
At Garden Yard, we stock a range of firepits and fire bowls in steel, cast iron, and powder-coated finishes — designed to complement Australian outdoor living and stand up to the elements year after year. A firepit isn't just a winter purchase — it extends the usability of your outdoor space well into autumn and on cooler summer nights, making your backyard somewhere you want to be year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are firepits legal in my area of Australia? Open fire regulations vary significantly across Australia and are largely managed at the local council level, with seasonal Total Fire Ban restrictions applying in all states. During a Total Fire Ban, all open fires - including firepits — are prohibited. Outside of fire ban periods, most councils permit backyard firepits provided they don't cause a nuisance to neighbours. Always check your local council's open burning rules and never use a firepit during a Total Fire Ban or
on high fire danger days.
What's the difference between a firepit and a fire bowl? A firepit typically refers to a deeper, bowl-shaped or enclosed structure designed for wood burning, often with legs or a stand. A fire bowl is generally shallower and wider, providing a more visual, decorative flame. Both serve the me purpose - warmth and ambience — but firepits tend to be better for longer burns and cooking, while fire bowls are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal.
Can I cook on a firepit? Many firepits are suitable for cooking - roasting marshmallows, grilling on a grate, or cooking directly over coals. If cooking is a priority, look for firepits that include or are compatible with a cooking grate accessory. Cast-iron and heavy steel firepits retain and distribute heat well, making them the preferred choice for firepit cooking.
What wood should I use in a firepit? Dry, seasoned hardwood is the best fuel for a firepit — it burns hotter, cleaner, and produces less smoke than softwood or green timber. Popular Australian options include red gum, ironbark, and box. Avoid burning treated timber, pallets, or painted wood, as these release toxic fumes. Never burn rubbish or garden waste in a residential firepit.
How far should a firepit be from the house and fences? As a general guide, position your firepit at least 3 metres from any structure, fence, overhanging tree, or combustible material. This buffer zone is both a safety measure and a common local council requirement. Always have a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby when a fire is burning.
How do I maintain a steel firepit? After each use, allow the firepit to cool completely before removing ash. Empty ash regularly - a buildup of wet ash accelerates rusting. For bare steel firepits, applying a light coat of cooking oil after cleaning helps protect the surface. Powder-coated firepits are more rust-resistant but benefit from being covered or stored under shelter when not
in use.
