Space, Ground & Surface Requirements
At Best Party Hire, safe setup depends on having the right space, the right ground, and the right surface. This page explains what space is needed, what ground conditions are required, and which surfaces we can and cannot use.
Required Space
What “Required Space” Means
The required space shown on each product page is the total clear area needed for safe setup and use.
It already includes space for:
Safe entry and exit
Safety mats
Blower and air tube
Supervision space
You don’t need to add extra space, as long as the full required space is completely clear.
Measurements: Feet & Metres
Measurements are shown in feet (ft) by default.
You can switch to metres (m) using the measurement toggle.
Always double-check which unit you’re using. Measuring slightly larger than required is recommended.
Minimum Space Rules
Your setup area must:
Match or exceed the required space
Be completely clear within that area
Have enough height clearance
Nothing should be inside the required space, including:
Walls or fences
Garden furniture
Trees or low branches
Posts or fixtures
Ground Conditions
Level Ground Requirement
Inflatables must be set up on flat, level ground.
The ground must be:
Even
Stable
Free from dips or raised areas
Level ground is essential for:
Safe anchoring
Stability during use
Meeting safety and insurance rules
If the ground is not level, we may be unable to set up.
Slopes, Uneven & Raised Areas
We cannot set up on:
Sloping gardens
Raised or terraced lawns
Stepped areas
Uneven or undulating ground
Even small slopes affect safety. If your area isn’t completely flat, tell us before booking.
Hazards & Obstacles
The space must be free from:
Trees, bushes, or hedges
Furniture or play equipment
Poles or fixtures
The ground must also be clear of:
Holes or dips
Rocks or stones
Roots
Sharp objects or debris
Clear the area in advance to avoid delays or disappointment.
Surface Types
Grass (Required Surface)
Grass is the required surface for most outdoor inflatable hires.
This is because:
Ground stakes can be used safely
Stability is much better
It meets safety and insurance rules
Grass must be:
Flat and level
Firm, not muddy or waterlogged
Free from holes, dips, or slopes
If grass is unsafe (for example, after heavy rain), we may not be able to set up.
Hard Standing (Not Suitable)
We do not set up on hard surfaces, including:
Concrete
Tarmac
Paving slabs
Decking
Any solid or non-penetrable surface
These cannot be safely anchored with stakes.
If your area is hard standing and this wasn’t discussed in advance, we may be unable to proceed and normal cancellation terms may apply.
Artificial Turf (Case by Case)
Artificial turf is assessed individually.
It may be laid over:
Soil or sand (sometimes suitable)
Concrete or hard base (not suitable)
We need to know:
What it’s laid on (if known)
Whether stakes can penetrate
Whether membranes or layers are underneath
Some artificial turf can be treated like grass. Others must be treated as unsuitable.
Tell us before booking if your surface is artificial turf.
Indoor Spaces & Venues
Indoor bookings are not subject to grass rules.
However, they must still meet:
Required floor space
Ceiling height
Clear access
Also consider:
Low beams
Light fittings
Fire exits
Always confirm venue suitability before booking.
If You’re Unsure
If you’re not sure your space or surface is suitable:
Measure carefully
Take photos
Send them before booking
We’re happy to advise in advance.
Why These Rules Matter
These rules exist to:
Keep children and guests safe
Ensure equipment is stable
Meet manufacturer, insurance, and legal rules
If space, ground, or surface is unsuitable on arrival and wasn’t discussed in advance, we may be unable to set up and normal cancellation terms may apply.
Need Help?
If you have questions about space, ground, or surface suitability, get in touch—we’re happy to help.