Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

If you are looking for a fire pit at Tractor Supply, the goal is to end up with a unit that fits your yard, meets local rules and can be set up safely on day one. This guide walks through how to compare fire pit types, check the details that matter before you buy, place the pit correctly and keep it in good shape. Whether you want a simple steel bowl for weekend s’mores or a larger ring for family gatherings, the steps below will help you narrow the choice quickly.

Step 1: Decide What Kind of Fire Pit You Need

Most fire pits fall into three broad groups: wood-burning bowls, wood-burning rings or enclosed pits, and gas or propane models. Tractor Supply’s in-store and online selection tends to lean toward steel wood-burning units, with some portable and gas options depending on the season and store. Start by deciding how you plan to use the pit.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 6 Best Liquid Propane Fire Pit Models for Patios and Backyards (2026).

  • Wood-burning bowl or ring: Good for s’mores, cooking and a traditional crackling fire. Requires you to buy and store firewood and to deal with ash.
  • Propane or natural gas: Lights with a button, produces little smoke and no ash. Needs a fuel source nearby and a connection or tank.
  • Portable or tabletop: Useful for small patios or occasional use. Usually smaller and lighter, so flame size and heat output are limited.

Step 2: Check Size, Diameter and Fire Area

Measure the fire area before you choose a model. Many backyard fire pits range from roughly 24 to 36 inches across the top, and larger rings can exceed that. A wider bowl gives you more flame and more heat, but it also raises the safe-distance requirements. Keep these rough guidelines in mind:

  • Allow at least 10 feet of clear space in every direction from the fire pit to combustible items such as fences, shrubs, overhangs and furniture. Check your local fire code, since some areas require more.
  • For seating, place chairs about 4 to 6 feet from the rim. Closer seating is uncomfortable and increases the chance of sparks landing on clothing.
  • Leave a path of at least 3 feet around the seating area so people can move without stepping over hot surfaces or cords.

Step 3: Inspect the Material and Construction

Steel is the most common material for fire pits sold at farm and outdoor retailers. Look for thicker gauge steel, since thin metal can warp after repeated high heat. Check the following:

  • Welds that look even and solid, with no gaps at the seams.
  • A flat, stable base or stand. Owners often report that legs or feet that do not sit level cause the pit to rock or tip.
  • Drain holes in the bottom of bowl-style pits, so rainwater does not sit and rust the base.
  • A spark screen or mesh lid if you want extra protection in windy conditions.

Step 4: Confirm Local Rules and Fuel Requirements

Before you light anything, check local burn regulations. Many towns restrict open fires during dry months or require a permit for certain fuels. If you choose a gas model, confirm whether your tank or line fits the unit and whether you need a regulator. Propane tanks should be stored upright, outside, and away from the fire pit. Consult your local fire department or utility provider if you are unsure about connecting a gas line.

Step 5: Choose the Right Location in Your Yard

Placement matters as much as the pit itself. Pick a spot that is level, well-drained and away from overhanging branches, wood structures and the house. The base should be non-combustible. Pavers, gravel with a stone border, or a concrete pad all work better than bare grass or wood decking. If you are building a base from scratch, a stable paver layout is a good option; a separate guide on Paving for Fire Pit: A Step-by-Step Guide to Safe, Level Backyard Bases covers the basics of leveling and edging.

Step 6: Set Up and Light the Fire Pit Safely

Once the pit is in place, follow a simple routine each time you use it.

  1. Check that the pit is level and that no debris or dry leaves are within the clear zone.
  2. Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher rated for wood and paper fires nearby.
  3. For wood fires, start with dry kindling and small pieces, then add larger logs once the flame is established. Avoid lighter fluid or gasoline.
  4. For gas units, turn the valve slowly, use the igniter, and check for leaks with a soapy water test on connections before first use.
  5. Never leave a fire unattended, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
  6. When finished, let wood fires burn down to ash, then douse with water and stir until cold to the touch before disposing of ash in a metal container.

Step 7: Plan Maintenance and Storage

A steel fire pit lasts longer when it is cleaned and protected. Remove ash after each use once it has cooled, and check the bottom for rust or holes at the start of each season. A fitted cover helps keep rain out of the bowl. If you store the pit in winter, make sure it is completely cold and dry first.

These items make a fire pit easier and safer to use, whichever model you buy.

  • Fire-rated gloves: Protect your hands when adding logs or moving a hot grate. View on Amazon
  • Fire pit cover: Keeps rain, snow and debris out of the bowl between uses. View on Amazon
  • Fire extinguisher, ABC rated: A useful backup for any outdoor fire area. View on Amazon
  • Long-handled fire poker and ash shovel: Lets you adjust logs and remove ash without leaning over the flame. View on Amazon

Common mistakes

  • Placing the pit too close to a fence, deck or shed. Measure the clear zone before you set the pit down.
  • Setting the pit on grass or mulch without a non-combustible base, which can spread embers.
  • Using accelerants such as lighter fluid, which can cause flare-ups.
  • Burning treated lumber, painted wood or trash, which releases harmful smoke.
  • Dumping hot ash into a plastic bin or leaving it on a wooden surface.
  • Skipping the leak check on a gas unit after reconnecting a tank.

Tips for a safer, better fire pit experience

  • Use seasoned hardwood such as oak or maple. It burns hotter and produces less smoke than wet or softwood.
  • Keep a small stack of firewood at least 10 feet from the pit so you are not reaching across the flames.
  • Check wind direction before lighting. Smoke and sparks drift toward the nearest seating area.
  • Plan seating so guests can leave the area without crossing hot zones.

FAQ

Does Tractor Supply sell fire pits?

Tractor Supply has carried outdoor fire pits in various styles over the years, including steel wood-burning units. Selection varies by store and season, so checking the current online listings or calling your local store is the most reliable way to confirm what is in stock.

What size fire pit is best for a small backyard?

For a small yard, a bowl or ring in the 24 to 30 inch range is usually easier to fit while still keeping the required clear space from structures and plants. Measure your available area first, including the seating zone, before choosing.

How far should a fire pit be from the house?

A common guideline is at least 10 feet from combustible structures, but your local fire code may require more. Check with your city or county before placing a permanent unit.

Can I put a fire pit on a wood deck?

Placing a fire pit directly on a wood deck is generally not recommended. Use a non-combustible base such as pavers or a concrete pad, and keep the pit well away from the deck edge. Consult a licensed contractor or your local building authority if you have questions about your specific deck.

What kind of wood should I burn?

Seasoned hardwood such as oak, hickory or maple burns cleanly and produces steady heat. Avoid green or wet wood, treated lumber, painted wood and trash, which create excess smoke and can release toxic fumes.

How do I put out a fire pit safely?

Let the fire burn down, then pour water over the coals and stir until everything is cold. Test with the back of your hand before walking away. Never cover hot ashes with a lid or plastic cover.

Are gas fire pits safer than wood-burning ones?

Gas units produce less smoke and no sparks or ash, which makes them easier to control. They still carry gas-related risks, so check connections for leaks, store tanks outdoors and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For gas line installation, consult a licensed professional.

How often should I clean my fire pit?

Remove ash after every few uses once it has cooled completely, and do a more thorough inspection at the start and end of each season for rust, cracks or loose parts.

Conclusion

Buying a fire pit from Tractor Supply is straightforward once you know what to look for. Match the type to how you plan to use it, measure the space and clear zone, choose a non-combustible base and follow safe lighting habits every time. With a stable pit in the right spot, you can enjoy a backyard fire for years. For more ideas on layouts and accessories, explore Outdoor Patio Seating with Fire Pit: 7 Layouts for Family Backyards.

Ready to choose one?

Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backyard living & play guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.