Guests book Smoky Mountain cabins for the evening outside: a hot tub under the porch roof, a fire pit down the path, burgers on the grill. Those three features are also where inspection rules cluster. Here are the numbers from the Sevier County Fire Marshal's short-term rental list (SCFMO), and how to design around them.
Fire pits: 15 feet from the structure
A wood-burning fire pit must be at least 15 feet from the structure and any combustible surface, and decks count as part of the structure.
Design move: measure from the edge of the deck, not the cabin wall. On a sloped lot, that can push the pit farther downhill than you expect, so plan the path and seating area early.
Charcoal grills: never on the deck
Charcoal grills and other open-flame cooking devices are not allowed on any part of the structure. They must be at least 10 feet from the structure and combustible surfaces.
Design move: draw a small gravel or paver grill pad 10 feet or more from the porch, with an easy path back to the kitchen door.
Gas grills on a deck: four conditions
Gas or propane grills can sit on a deck if they have:
- A non-combustible mat underneath.
- A 60-minute shut-off timer on the gas line.
- The grill secured so it can't move.
- 18 inches of clearance from railings and walls.
Hot tubs: glass, railings and covers
- Windows within 60 inches of the hot tub must be tempered glass or have ANSI 97.1 safety film.
- If the tub is closer than 18 inches to a deck railing, fall protection is required, measured 36 inches from the seated position.
- The cover must meet ASTM F1346 and be in good condition.
Design move: lock in the hot tub location before ordering windows. Ordering one or two tempered units up front costs far less than film or replacement later.
Put it on one sheet
Every STR-Ready plan set includes an outdoor clearances sheet showing the deck, hot tub zone, grill pad and fire pit distances on one page, so your builder and landscaper work from the same numbers.
The county's list covers the most common issues, not every inspection item, and requirements can vary by property. Check with the Fire Marshal's Office for your unit.